The Curse of Home Farm

[irishgal]

Okay here goes. This is my fan fiction attempt. Forgot the disc to print of and retype here so will only give a small bit today.

Any comments or criticisms will be read might not take heed but will read!!!

The story so far - going with the storyline of Zoe going loopy again, she doesn't get to the stage of burning down Home Farm but has decided maybe she needs to take a holiday abroad away from Home Farm but receives a call from her solicitor Rachel which prompts the biggest decision of her life.

Characters: usual suspects.


Tom and Charity and Noah are in the kitchen at Holdgate Farm having lunch when Sadie comes rushing in.

Sadie: Dad, i've just seen your estate agent leaving Home Farm.
Tom: Adrian Lyttle?
Sadie: maybe you should give him a call, with everything that has happened lately with Zoe losing Noah, she might be willing to sell.
Tom: Good idea, i might just do that.

Tom gets up from the table and makes his way out to the office where Matthew is using the phone.

Tom: Will you be long, i need to make a call?

Matthew ends his call and hands his father the phone.

Matthew: Where's the fire?

Tom punches in a number and waits for an answer.

Tom: Adrian, it's Tom King here.
Adrian: Good afternoon, Tom, how are you? How can i help?
Tom: Look i'm not going to beat around the bush, you were seen leaving Home Farm and i am just wondering as Zoe Tate decided to sell?
Adrian: I was planning to ring you later on, its too late she has sold Home Farm.
Tom: What the hell? Adrian i have been a good client and you were aware that i wanted Home Farm at any cost?
Adrian: Tom, i didn't know it was on the market, the contracts were already signed when Zoe contacted me looking for a property abroad.
Tom: who did she sell it to?
Adrian: All I know is a company based in London has purchased it on behalf of someone, if i knew anymore i would tell you.
Tom: Goodbye, Adrian.

Tom slammed the receiver down.
Tom: Zoe Tate has sold Home Farm.

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Okay that's all for now, dont want to differ too much from what i have on my computer at home so will prob want to make some changes tomorrow.

irishgal

[sootycat]

Wonder who the new owner will be

[irishgal]

Okay guys, printed off my fan fiction from computer at home and going to start again. i apologise to anyone who has already read my first bit but this is def better.

Tuesday

Sadie enters the Office at Holdgate Farm where Matthew, Tom and Charity are working.

Sadie: Dad, i think i just seen your estate agent leaving Home Farm, Zoe has hardly put it on the market, has she?
Tom: Adrian Lyttle, i doubt it, he would have contacted me, he know's i'm still interested in purchasing it.
Charity: Maybe you should ring him just to be sure, with everything that has been going on up there lately maybe she has finally given in.

The light flickers on the baby monitor on the desk beside Charity.

Sadie: don't you think you should go see if Noah is okay?

Charity reluctantly gets up and go checks on Noah thinking to herself the sooner she gets a nanny the better.

Matthew: wouldn't do any harm, Dad.

Tom lifted the phone and dialled Adrian Lyttle's number while Matthew and Sadie watched on with anticipation.

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Meanwhile down in the village. A car pulls up in the village and asks Jarvis and Edna for directions. Thanking them for their help the car drives on through the village in the direction of Home Farm.

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Tom: Adrian why the hell didn't you ring me, you knew i was still interested in buying Home Farm.
Adrian: There was no point the papers have already been signed, Ms Tate had agreed to sell to the buyer with putting the farm on the market. I am sorry, Tom, i know how much you wanted it.
Tom: who is the buyer?
Adrian: i'm not at liberty to say, but she will be moving in next week, Ms Tate plans to be out by Sunday, I have to take another call, Tom, you know where i am if you need to talk to me again, once again i am sorry.

Tom said goodbye and replaced the receiver.

Sadie: well, what's going on? has someone bought it?

Tom ignored her and sat down.

Matthew: Dad?

Tom: give me a minute, will you?

Sadie and Matthew looked at each other and waited for Tom to talk.

Tom: Zoe Tate has sold Home Farm and is planning to be gone by the weekend. she sold it straight to a buyer the papers were signed before Adrian got involved.
Sadie: i don't believe it, she knew you were interested why go somewhere else if she wanted a quick sale.
Tom: i don't know but we will have a new neighbour next week.
Matthew: did he tell you who?
Tom: no he wouldn't say, a woman though.

Matthew thought to himself, interesting a new face no harm in that, the talent in the village was not exactly hot on the ground.

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

Meanwhile at Home Farm,

Ashley: i hope you are doing the right thing?
Zoe; this is for the best, i need to get away from here and put mine and Jeans life back together. This place holds too many memories and i know that Kate will love this house as i much as i did.
Ashley: what's she like?
Zoe: you can find out for yourself, she's just pulled up outside.

Kate Tyler turned off the engine and sat for a minute looking at Home Farm. She took her bag and got out of the car. This was perfect, home sweet home, the stables were a bonus, they would be a good ongoing business and Zoe had recommended to keep her Estate Manager. It would be nice to be somewhere where the trees were plentiful and the scenery wasn't just pictures. She'd had enough of travelling and living out of a suitcase, it was time to settle down.

Zoe opened the door and went out to meet Kate.

Kate: hi there, how you doing?
Kate hugged Zoe.
Zoe: i'm fine, i feel like a great weight has been lifted of my shoulders, thank you.
Kate: don't be thanking me, my father always loved your home and i know both our dads would be happy to know Home Farm is in safe hands.
Zoe: want me to show you around your new home? i want you to meet a very good friend of mine too.

Zoe led Kate into the house. Kate and Zoe's fathers had been business partners over 20 years ago and Zoe and Kate had been childhood friends. kate had contacted Rachel - Zoe's solicitor when she returned to England looking to buy a home near her childhood home. Rachel had mentioned that Zoe was thinking of selling and she would talk to her. Kate hadn't been in Home Farm in nearly 15 years but when Rachel had said that Zoe was interested at the right price she had made a very generous offer and Zoe had accepted.

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


I think that's enough for now, sorry to have to start again. Enjoy

[irishgal]

hi guys, work quiet so going to give you another bit.

So far: the Kings are aware that Home Farm has been sold. Kate, Zoe and Ashley are at Home Farm.

Kate: its still as beautiful as i remember.

Kate looked around her remembering the fun that Zoe, Chris and her brother James used to have playing in the big house.

Zoe: Kate, i'd like you to meet Ashley, a very good friend and the local vicar.
Kate shook Ashley's hand.
Ashley: nice to meet you.
Kate: and you.
Zoe: how about a glass of wine to celebrate.

Kate reached into her bag and pulled out a bottle of champagne.

Kate: i thought maybe a toast to new beginnings and old friends?

Zoe smiled and took the bottle from her.

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

Meanwhile at Holdgate Farm.

Matthew: where are you going Dad? asked Matthew as his father put on his jacket.

Tom: going to go find out just who Zoe Tate has sold Home Farm to, are you coming?

Matthew followed his father outside passig Charity and Sadie in the hall.

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

Ashley: so Kate why Emmerdale, from what i gather you've seen some pretty amazing places on your travels?
Kate: my father always loved it here and when he was dying i promised him i would come back and visit. but i didn't and kept travelling and i was sitting in Bangkok airport two months ago watching two kids playing and i remembered the fun that we used to have and just decided it was time to come home.
Zoe: how's James?
Kate: James died a year and 1/2 a go from Cancer but he had a great life, his wife Sasha and his two girls live in New York, she has a new partner and they are very happy.
Zoe: i'm sorry, i know what it's like to lose a brother. we've spent our lives worlds aparts but its scary how similar they've been.
Kate: no more solemn talk, this is a new beginning, come on give me a tour, its killing me just sitting here.

Ashley said his goodbyes and left the two women to it.

As Kate and Zoe came back downstairs there was a knock at the door.

Zoe: want to get that? you're the new lady of the house.
Kate laughed and made her way to the door. Opening the door she greeted the two visitors.

Kate: whatever you're selling we're not interested, but thanks.
Zoe laughed at Kate and thought to herself how much she had missed growing up without Kate as her friend, maybe things would have been different. Chris might still be alive and Kate and him would have married, he was heartbroken when she left the village, Charity would never have featured in their lifes.

Tom pushed his way past Kate.

Tom: i want to see Zoe.
Zoe: Tom, how can i help?
Tom: you can tell me what the hell is going on? you knew i wanted to buy Home Farm why the hell didn't you come to me first?
Kate: excuse me but if you don't mind this is my home now and i would prefer if you didn't raise your voice at my guest or i will have to ask you to leave.
Tom: who the hell do you think you are talking to...........?
Kate interrupted him.

Kate: my name is Kate Tyler and you are? Other than being very annoyed at the moment.

Tom looked at this young woman and all his anger melted away, she reminded him of his wife Mary when he first met her.

Tom: i'm sorry, i love this house and had hoped someday to live here, my name is Tom King and i live at Holdgate Farm.

Kate looked at Zoe and they started laughing.

Tom and Matthew looked at the women than at each other.
Kate: i used to live at Holdgate a long time ago and all i ever wanted was to live here too. You better come in, i think we could all do with a drink.

Matthew watched with intrigue as Kate Tyler led his father towards the kitchen. he had never seen anyone have that effect on his father other than his mum. she was the only one who could stop him when he was in full flow of an argument or tantrum. The minute she opened the door his heart had skipped a beat. She had long blonde hair loosely tied back, the brightest blue eyes that seemed to dance when she talked and even though she was just wearing black jeans and top, she was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. When Matthew got to the kitchen, they were all sitting around the table chatting as if they had known each other for years.

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[irishgal]

Hi folks?

What do you think so far? Please let me know if its crap
will stop but if liked will keep at it?

Now i know from prog the Kings lived in the village but i am working that Tom King and Kate Tyler's father only met at 1 or 2 of Frank Tate's parties.


Part 3

Tom, Matthew, Zoe and Kate Tyler are in the Kitchen of Home Farm.

Tom: so you used to live at Holdgate Farm, how long ago?
Kate: My dad was a business partner of Frank's and when my Mum passed away we moved down here, Dad my brother James and I. We moved to the states in 87, hard to believe that's 17 years ago.
Tom: Your dad and brother will they be joingng you here?
Kate: no, dad's dead 6 years and James died a year and 1/2 ago from Cancer, so just me.

Matthew: kinda lonely here on your own?

Matthew asked secretly smiling to himself, thinking even better again, on her own, could see himself living here.

Kate: i was fifteen when we moved, i hated it, i don't think i ever felt so lonely as i did then, i think i will manage here though.
Tom: what changed?
Kate: me, i guess, my dad had planned for me to join him and James when i finished college and help run the business but i turned 18 and packed my bags and left.
Tom: where did you go?
Kate: dossed about for 6 months and took this mad notion and enlisted to the Navy just to spite my father, he had a thing about where a woman's place was and i hated him for that. I can still see the look of horror on his face when I called to see him after my passing out.

Zoe poured some more drinks and thought to herself had been a long time since more than 2 people had sat in this kitchen and just talked over the last few years nothing but arguments seem to happen at Home Farm.

Zoe: so that's how you've seen so many places.
Kate: I was lucky, I moved about a fair bit, was even based in England for 6 months.
Tom: I can't imagine you in the navy.
Kate: as they say 'don't judge a book by its cover'
Tom: so what happened next?

Everyone laughed.
Tom: what? i like a good story.
Kate: Dad, had a heart attack and asked me to come home and help James with the business. That was 94 and with my contacts through the navy have built up quite a profitable business.
Tom: and your brother?
Kate: he had headaches for months eventually went to doctor but it was too late, he died within 2 months, it was quite a shock.
Tom: and just you running the business now?
Kate: at the moment, but considering some options.

After a while, Tom and Matthew said their goodbyes and left.

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

At Holdgate Farm

Sadie: where's Dad? He should be back by now?
Jimmy: I think this is them now.

They both looked out the window and watched Matthew and Tom coming up the driveway laughing.

Sadie: what the hell are they laughing about?

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

Back at Home Farm

Kate: Have you organised somewhere to live?
Zoe: going to have a holiday first, have enquired about a few places but not going to make a decision yet.

Kate: you, Jean and Joseph will be welcome here any time, you know that don't you, this will always be your home.

Zoe hugged Kate and thanked her again.

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

Sadie: We were beginning to get worried about you two? So, what did you find out?

Tom: not a thing to worry about. Other than I think i'm in love.
Matthew: me too!
Charity: Forget Zoe, i've told you two before you're not her type.
Tom: not Zoe, we met the new owner, Kate Tyler, she reminds me of Mary when i first met her.

Charity sat down and scowled at him.

Tom: oh don't worry Charity i don't think she would be bothered with me, has seen to much of the outside world to settle for an old man like me.
Jimmy: so what's her story?
Tom: lived here in Holdgate Farm as a child, moved to states, joined the navy, annd now runs her fathers business and has decided to come back to Emmerdale to live.
Matthew: whatever for.
Sadie: what's her plans for Home Farm and the Stables.
Matthew: didn't ask.
Sadie: well what use are you two?

Sadie grabbed Jimmy and pushed him out of the room.

-----------------------------------
Later that evening, in the Woolpack

Ashley joined Laurel at a table.
Laurel: so what's she like?
Ashley had been filling Laurel in on his meeting with Kate Tlyer.
Ashley: seems nice, lived here as a child and has bought Home Farm to settle down in.

Viv and Val were standing close enough trying to listen to Ashley and Laurel's conversation.
Viv: what's this about Home Farm?
Ashley: oh haven't you heard, Zoe has sold Home Farm and is leaving the village on Sunday.
Val: go away, you're having us on.
Viv: Zoe Tate sell Home Farm there's more chance of hell freezing over.
Ashley: well you better pack your ice pick then, because she has.
Viv: what about Jean?

Viv grabbed her bag and rushed out of the Woolpack.

Laurel: you enjoyed that didn't you.

Watching Ashley laugh to himself.

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

that's all for now enjoy

Tom:

[sootycat]

Good story Irishgal.
I somehow sense a connection between Tom and Kate.?

[irishgal]

hi all

Part 4

The Next Day at Home Farm

Zoe: look Scott you know this is for the best, i need to get away, i'm ........... Watching Charity bring up Christopher sorry drag up Christopher..........well i don't want to get sick again. If i lost Jean.......
Scott: but you should have told me, after everything we have been through i thought i meant more to you, to both of you. Where are you going to go?
Zoe: i have rented a villa in the Algarve for a couple of months, once i get settled you can come and spend some time with Jean. This is for the best.
Scott: i could come with you, Robert can look after the garage.
Zoe: no, i need to do this on my own, i will ring if i need you, i promise.
Scott: i guess that's it then, when do you leave?
Zoe: Sunday afternoon.
Scott: what about everything here, Jean's stuff.
Zoe: Scott to be honest Kate made me a very generous offer, i've packed what i need for the moment and there are some boxes to go into storage. Kate can do what she wants with everything else. New beginnings remember.
Scott: How about i take Jean for a few hours and spend some time together seeing that it will be a while before she sees her dad again.
Zoe: you can keep her till tomorrow if you like, it would give me a chance to tie up a few loose ends.

Scott hugged Zoe and lifted Jean from her highchair.

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

In the village, Tom and Charity are talking to Alan Turner, when Kate pulls up beside them.

Tom: Good morning, Kate.
Kate: Tom.

Kate gets her out of car and joins them.

Tom: Kate i'd like you to meet my fiancee Charity Tate and Alan Turner, Alan owns the B&B.
Alan: not any more, signed the papers this morning, as of now am a lodger.
Charity: so you're the one that kept my man out last night.
Kate: i'm sorry, we kinda lost track of time, you know how it is.
Alan: Tom tells me that you have bought Home Farm, moving in soon.
Kate: on Monday, but will probably move out for a few weeks while i get some work done.
Charity: what kind of work?
Kate: want to restore some of its original features want to open the place up a bit and let some light it. Want to move the office out altogether no need for it in the house.
Charity: you not keeping the stables then?

Charity thought to herself, if she got first chance on the stables, Sadie would be fuming and Charity needed to get one up on her after the dinner fiasco.

Kate: i'm not selling them, if that's what you are asking, it's a sound business, i would be mad to let it go, will probably just let Callum take more control. i have other business interests to keep me busy.
Tom: going to let us in on them?
Kate: now Tom, you know better than that.
Alan: we were just going to go have lunch in the Woolie would you like to join us? Might as well get meeting the locals over and done with!
Tom, Charity and Alan laughed. Tom linked Kate and Charity's arms.
Tom: he's right the sooner its done the more chance of recovering.
Kate looked at them worryingly.
Kate: is it that bad?

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

Matthew looked up from his paper to see his father and Charity come into the Woolie. He then noticed Kate and Alan Turner behind them. Carl turned around to see what had got his brother's attention.

Tom: hi boys, make some room for us there. Tom and Charity sat in beside Matthew. Kate and Alan sat beside Carl.

Matthew thought to himself <why does he always get the best seats, the lazy twit.>

Tom: Kate this is my youngest Carl and you met Matthew last night.
Kate and Carl shook hands and she smiled over at Matthew.

Kate: so Carl's the baby then? i guess you will be the one to call on for a laugh, from what i've seen Matthew bit too serious for my liking!

Carl smiled back and putting his arm around Kate while Matthew just glared at both of them.

<cow, what has he got that i haven't, i can be fun, Carl's nothing but a lazy git> Matthew thought to himself.
Kate: don't take offence Matthew, i'm only joking, So what's good to eat?

Matthew thought to himself <okay maybe not a cow>

Charity went to the counter and placed their food order.
Val: so who's the blonde?
Charity: Kate Tyler, she's bought Home Farm.
Diane: you're kidding, she can't be more than 30.
Charity: 32, daddy's money though.
Val: you might want to watch her, Charity, looks like a bit of a gold digger, you know the sort.
Charity: takes one to know one, doesn't it Val.

Back at the table:

Alan: so have you big renovation plans for Home Farm? i'd hate to see it ruined.
Kate: don't worry i'm not planning to turn it into a upmarket pad. My father along with Frank Tate would turn in their graves.
Tom: well, if you need somewhere to stay while the work is being done, Matthew has Victoria Cottage across the road, no point it sitting empty, is there Matthew?
Matthew: i guess not?

Matthew knew better in this case to agree with his father, he still hadn't forgiven him for the underhand way he had purchased the cottage.
Kate: that would be great, i'll pay rent of course.
Tom: we wouldn't hear of it, would we Matthew?
Matthew: No.

Diane came over to the table and placed the food in front of them.
Diane: hi, i'm Diane Blackstock i part own this place.
Kate: Kate Tyler, nice to meet you.
Diane: is there anything else i can get you?
Kate:no i'm fine but thanks.

During lunch, Kate's phone started ringing. looking at the screen Kate got up from the table.
Kate: i'm sorry i need to take this.

Kate made her way outside to take the call.

Tom: don't even think of taking rent of her, i know what you are like, fooling one woman out of money in this village will do.
Matthew just shook his head in agreement. It suited him anyway, he had planned to put it on the market in a couple of months, better off having someone living there.

Kate came back in and spoke to Diane at the bar.

Kate: i'm sorry guys, but i have to go back to Leeds, somethings come up that i need to deal with asap.
Tom: anything we can do?
Charity glared at Tom first and then Kate. <who did she think she was, rolling into town taking over the village>

Kate: not at all, i've taken care of lunch, enjoy the rest of it and i'll see you in a few days. Matthew if you are serious about me renting Victoria Cottage i would be delighted.
Matthew: no problem, but no rent, call me when you need to move in.

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

that's all for now, enjoy.

Any comments etc
irishgal

[irishgal]

Part 5

Sunday Morning, at Home Farm.

Ashley: are you sure you have everything, there still seems to be a lot of stuff.
Zoe: i have all i want, if there is anything you could auction off for church funds you are more than welcome to it, i spoke to Kate last night and she only wants to keep a few things.
Ashley: that would be great are you sure Kate doesn't want a few things to sell them herself.
Zoe: i am, take it from me, Kate doesn't need to worry about money and i suggested it already, she would be delighted for you to take a few pieces.
Ashley: ok, i'll make note of what i would like and leave it for Kate.
Zoe: Do you know i feel like a teenager again, i've never been so excited about leaving a place.
Ashley: it's obvious you haven't stopped smiling since i got here.
Zoe: i know, my face is even sore!!!

They both laughed and raised their glasses and toasted to new beginnings.

Zoe: new beginnings, old friends
Ashley: new friends and even better beginnings.

Ashley: we better go i told Scott we would meet in the Woolie for lunch before you leave.
Zoe: let's go then, might just let a few home truths spill.
Ashley: new beginnings, Zoe remember.
Zoe: oh come on!!!

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

In The Merriott Leeds Hotel, Kate was checking out. She signed some papers said her goodbyes to the manager and followed the porter out to her car. She gave him a generous tip. As she started the engine she thought to herself <hope you are happy, Dad, this is what you wanted>

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

When Scott, Ashley and Zoe entered the Woolie. The place was full and over the bar was a banner wishing Zoe, Jean and Joseph Good Luck. Zoe looked around her and realised even though some of this people she didn't get on with or particularly like they were part of her life here.

Diane: Zoe, i hope you don't mind, we just wanted to wish you all the best for the future.
Zoe nodded in agreement and took the glass of champagne she offered her.
Diane: (in a raised voice) Some of us didn't always get on with Zoe, some of us never, but we have all lived in this village and all know how much the Tate's have done or not done as some people think for this village, but everyone is entitled to a good and happy life. So i hope for today we can all drop the ill feelings and wish Zoe, Jean and Joseph every happiness and success with their new life and that they will always be welcome for a drink whenever they might be in the neighbourhood. Zoe, Jean and Joseph.

Everyone raised their glasses and toasted them.

After their lunch, Ashley, Scott and Diane waved Zoe and the kids off.
Ashley: don't worry, Zoe will never let Jean forget you.
Scott: i know.

They waited until she was out of the village before going back into the Woolie.

__________________________

Kate sat at the table and poured herself a glass of brandy. Sitting in silence she took a drink and savoured the taste. It was going to be great being here, she had lived out of her suitcase for long enough and no matter how nice the hotel rooms were it never felt quite like home. She had got to Home Farm over an hour ago and this was as far as she had got, she had one suitcase and her briefcase with her. She opened the fridge and a couple of presses and smiled when she noticed Zoe had done some shopping at least she would have something to cook this evening. She laughed as she thought of herself cooking, she couldn't remember when she last cooked a proper meal. Suddenly a knock at the door startled her she and turned to see Matthew King popping his head around the door.

Matthew: i'm sorry i didn't mean to startle you.
Kate: come in, it's okay i was miles away.
Matthew: anywhere nice?
Kate: no, drink?

Kate poured Matthew a brandy and sat back down at the table.

Kate: look about me staying in Victoria Cottage, i would prefer if you let me pay rent, i got the impression it was your Dad's idea not to pay.
Matthew: Don't be daft.
Kate: no, it's an investment and i'm sure you are losing money with it just sitting there, i'd charge you rent if the shoe was on the other foot.
Matthew: if you insist.
Kate: i do. So come on what's your deal?
Matthew: what do you mean?
Kate: i've met all your family even Jimmy and Sadie, how did you get away from Sadie?
Matthew: What Sadie makes Jimmy very happy!
Kate: You mean Jimmy's inheritance makes Sadie happy!
Matthew laughed and finished his drink.
Kate: another?

Matthew nodded and held out the glass for her.

Matthew: you're quick!
Kate: thank you. I've seen Sadie's type before its a wonder she didn't make a play for you?
Matthew: maybe she did?
Kate: Jimmy more of a soft touch than! Carl's sweet but i think enjoys the good life too much, so i guess that makes you the brains behind the business, while behind your Dad!
Matthew: Honest too!
Kate: look i've grown up in a tough family and thankfully i take after my Dad when it comes to reading people.
Matthew: ever get it wrong?
Kate: once, but take it from me it won't happen again. Wouldn't be here today if i did.
Matthew: how wrong?
Kate: Marriage. Vegas. Divorce three months later and quite a hefty alimony payment, my father made sure i didn't forget it for a long time. One of life's tough lessons he reckoned.
Matthew: Marriage!
Kate: you seem surprised
Matthew:figured you would be wiser.
Kate; don't believe in marriage then? what about your parents? what about your Dad and Charity?
Matthew: Mom & Dad yes but we both know what Charity's at. She's worried about you and Dad getting on so well.
Kate: needn't worry, unlike her i'm not after his money. It's his body!

They both laughed. Matthew thought to himself <she had gotten him wrong, Sadie wasn't his type, Kate was.> When he first met Sadie, he thought she was tough but she took the easy way out and went for the soft touch, but he knew that Kate would pick the highest mountain and leap across it. He liked that in a woman and he could see why his father was so fond of her.

Getting up from his chair, he took Kate's hand and helped her up.
Matthew: come on, i'm dying to get a look around this place and you can tell me your plans.
Kate led him out the hall and showed him around.

-----------------------------
At Holdgate Farm.

Tom: why don't we invite Kate over for tea, i'm sure she hasn't done any shopping yet?
Charity: i think she can fend for herself!
Tom: is that the green eyed monster i see?

Tom got up and went over to Charity. Placing his arms around her he gently kissed her.
Tom: somehow i don't think it's me that has caught her eye.
Charity: who?
Tom:Let's just wait and see.
Charity: come on, tell me?
Tom: invite her over for dinner with all of us and you might see.
Charity: Okay, i'll walk over and see what she's doing.

Charity walked to Home farm and on the way thought to herself how strange it would be to be back in Home Farm and it not belonging to the Tates. She had hoped that Tom would eventually persuade Zoe to sell to him and that she would eventually be back where she belonged. As she approached the front of Home Farm she noticed Matthew's car parked out front. <interesting, she thought Carl would have been more Kate's type>


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

okay that's enough typing

Enjoy

irishgal

[irishgal]

Part 6

Charity knocked on the front door and waited for an answer, after a couple of seconds she tried again. She waited another few seconds and when she got no answer she went around the back. As she approached the door she could hear music and laughter coming from the kitchen. Pushing the back door open, she found Matthew and Kate sitting on the floor and by the looks of things they were on their second bottle of wine.

Charity: ahmm, am i interrupting something?
Matthew and Kate looked up at Charity and burst into laughter again.
Kate: hi, Charity, come on in, we were just deciding what colour to paint the ceiling, i prefer magnolia but Matthew thinks a flourescent orange would bring out the colour in your cheeks,.... sorry my cheeks.
Charity: Charming, i'm sure. Thought maybe you would like to join us for dinner, figured you probably wouldn't have had time to get any food in.
Kate: some other time maybe, need to make a call to Bangkok shortly and don't want to be bringing work out with me, thanks for the offer though, Zoe made sure the fridge was full before she left.
Charity: Bangkok, what kind of business do you have there?

Matthew glared at Charity. Kate laughed to herself,< this one had no tact whatsoever. If it had been Kate in her shoes she would have made it her business to have been at Home Farm to meet her before she even had chance to set foot in the house.>

Kate: I run a couple of sweatshops, we make imitation handbags.
Charity looked at her and wondered if she was serious.
Kate: i'll ask them to send me a couple of samples for you if you like?

Matthew started laughing which set Kate off again. Charity turned on her heel and left.

Matthew: you're cruel
Kate: what is she like, does she really think just because i've had a couple of glasses of wine i'm going to tell her my business.
Matthew: So what are you cooking me for dinner then?
Kate: I thought you could cook, i want to make a call and have a quick shower.
Matthew: beans and toast then?
Kate: sounds good, call me when its ready.
Matthew: will i open another bottle?
Kate: my casa su casa.

Matthew watched Kate walk away and smile to himself <where has this woman been all his life?>

----------------------------------------
Charity stormed into the house and went straight for the drinks cabinet.

Sadie: bitten of more than you can chew?
Chairty: mind your own business? where's Tom?
Sadie: upstairs dealing with your brat!

Charity turned around and looked at Sadie and thought about thumping her so hard that the smile would be on the other side of her face. Just as she made a step Tom entered the room with baby Noah.

Tom: hello there, is Kate joining us for dinner?
Charity: has some calls to make again, Matthew's over there discussing paint colours.
Tom just grinned to himself and handed Noah to his mother.
Sadie: he's where? At Home Farm?
Tom: good for him.

Sadie thought to herself, not if i can help it. Sadie only married Jimmy because he was the oldest and she had figured that he would inherit the family business but Tom had made it pretty clear that Matthew was first in line to take over the business and there was no way another blonde haired blue eyed girl was going to get in to this family.

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

Kate returned to the kitchen to find the table set and some candles lit, music playing and whatever was cooking smelt great.

Kate: no beans on toast then?
Matthew handed her a glass of wine and led her towards the table.
Matthew: want you to remember your first meal here, beside i couldn't find the can opener or the beans!
Kate took the glass of wine and sat down at the table.
Kate: it smells great
Matthew: let's hope it tastes as good, been a while since i cooked for a woman.
Kate: cooked for many?
Matthew: one or two but one can only eat takeaways for so long.

Matthew placed the plates down in front of them and joined her at the table.

Kate: this is great, you're wasted working at the haulage yard you should be cooking for a living. I'm probably going to need a butler come chef, wages and benefits would be good!
Matthew: How good?
Kate: you would have to take the job to find out!
Matthew: let me eat first will think about it then.

Matthew and Kate spent the next hour or so talking about her travels.

Kate: that was wonderful, nice to just sit and eat, i usually eat this kind of food at a restaurant with business contacts so never really get to enjoy the food.
Matthew: so what kind of business are you in? I can't see you running a sweatshop!
Kate: have a few different things, main business is a chain of hotels and a chain of holiday homes, my brother looked after the hotels most of the time but since he got sick i got more involved. It's the Harriott Group.
Matthew: Stayed in one of the hotels in Munich, well run.
Kate: The european are our best, the Asian sector needs work so will probably have to spend the next 6 months between here and Bangkok.
Matthew: never been to Bangkok.
Kate: let's not talk about business, don't want to ruin the evening.

Kate changed the subject, from past experience, once a guy knew what kind of money the Tyler fortune was worth, their attitude changed and they changed. With her only left, it was going to be hard bearing that kind of wealth. Money definitely might help towards happiness but material things would never make up for love and family.
Matthew: So what do you want to talk about?
Kate: Ever been married?
Matthew:no
Kate: how come?
Matthew: don't think i am the marrying type.
Kate: work comes first!
Matthew: you could say that? how about your marriage?
Kate: i don't know if you would call it that, we worked together went out partying a couple of times, went to Vegas for a weekend, got very drunk and Elvis married us, we both woke up the next day and realized what we had one, i didn't even like him.
Matthew: so no other weddings?
Kate: to be honest i've been so busy with work i haven't even been on a proper date in years.
Matthew: well maybe we could go out some time?

Matthew thought to himself <what the hell, he couldn't remember when he was last on a date either>
Kate: Matthew King are you asking me out on a date?
Matthew: well thought i'd get in before Rodney or Jarvis!

They both laughed. Kate's phone started ringing.
Kate mouthed i'm sorry.

Kate: Hi Dean, where are you? What time is it there?
Kate made her way out to the hall and pushed the door behind her.

Matthew cleared away the plates and after about ten minutes he went towards the hall.

Kate: i know i miss you to, but Dean i have so much on, why don't you come here, to be honest would like to talk to you about things and its not a conversation for the phone. It would be nice to spend some time with a friend, will you ring me before you come so i can organize a couple of days. i know. me to, bye.

Kate turned and noticed Matthew standing at the door. <he most have overheard her, that's all she needed, she hadn't heard from Dean in months, she had thought it was over>

Matthew: i better be going, have an early morning. Thanks for the dinner, See you.

Kate: Matthew wait!

But it was too late he had practically ran out the door. Kate cursed to herself < damn you Dean Lacey, your timing hadn't improved>

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


okay enjoy.

As usual any comments etc.

[eithne]

It's really good so far. Can't wait to see what happens next. Kate seems like a good character.

[irishgal]

Part 7

Tuesday morning, Tom King calls to Home Farm to find a lot of activity and workmen coming in and out of the house.

Tom: Good morning, i was hoping to see Ms Tyler?
Workman: sorry, mate don't know, that guy over there with the yellow hard hat is the foreman.

Tom walked towards a gentleman discussing plans with some workmen. Jimmy Lynott turn towards the older man walking towards him.

Jimmy: if you're the plumber you're over an hour late.
Tom: no, i'm a friend of Ms Tyler, i was hoping to see her.
Jimmy: sorry, mate she flew to Bangkok last night and she said it would be the end of next week before she'd be back.
Tom: and she left you in charge?

Jimmy: have done plenty of work for Ms Tyler before, she knows when i do a job its done right!
Tom: well i hope so!

Tom walked back towards his car and wondered should he ring around and check this guy out, Kate might need to have someone to keep an eye on things.

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

Matthew looked up as his father walked into the office.

Matthew: you alright, Dad?
Tom: just been up at Home Farm, Kate's gone to Bangkok and just left the workmen to it!
Matthew: i wouldn't worry about it, don't think Kate is silly enough to leave just anyone in charge.
Tom: maybe not but i would feel better if we keep an eye on them anyway!
Matthew: you can Dad, i have better things to be doing!

Tom: what the hell is wrong with you, don't tell me you've blown things already? for once can't you try?
Matthew: i didn't do anything, she was the one leading me on! Heard her on the phone the other night all lovey dovey.
Tom: are you sure you didn't get the wrong end of the stick? i got the impression from her that there was no-one special on the scene!
Matthew: she's not my type anyway! I'm meeting George Shaw in an hour, where's the papers for him to sign?
Tom: here, don't be changing the subject, i'm no fool i've see the way you are around her!

Matthew: Forget it Dad, i have. See you later.

Matthew took the papers from his father and left.
Tom watched Matthew walk away and hoped he hadn't forgotten and he thought he would have to try and push him in the right direction. He was so deep in thought he didn't notice Charity come into the office.

Charity: hello! Hellloooo!
Tom: Sorry love, i didn't see you come in!
Charity: beginning to think you forgetting about me!
Tom: How could i do that? hugging Charity as she sat down on his knees.
Charity: so what were you thinking about?
Tom: my lost cause of a son
Charity: which one?
Tom: very funny, how's Noah.
Charity: i finally got him to sleep, Could do with a lie down myself want to tuck me in?

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

have to go more tomorrow!

[irishgal]

Part 8

Friday evening

Jimmy Lynott: hi Kate, everything is great, place is fully cleared of all furniture, we have finished the main bedroom, floors finished.
Kate: that’s great, what condition is the stone in?
Jimmy Lynott: you were right, its intact just needs a good cleaning, we’re on the kitchen and patio area and will have the office and front rooms organised by middle of next week. Your neighbour, Tom King has called up a couple of times.
Kate: that’s great. I’ll be back earlier than I expected on Monday morning, I’ll talk to you then, Thanks Jimmy.
Jimmy Lynott: no bother.

Kate hung up the phone and looked out the window of her hotel room. She had hoped maybe that Matthew would have dropped by. She had called Dean last night and had told him that there was no point him coming to visit, they had been over for long time and one of them had to say it. He had agreed with her and felt the same, they were better of as friends, the sex had just become routine and handy, they didn’t have to try and date they had found the easy way out and if they were honest it had suited them both with work and travelling so much.

She just hoped that Matthew would understand and hopefully she hadn’t blown it, she really liked Matthew, really liked him, it had been a long time since she had felt this way about anyone.



Monday morning, Jimmy Lynott is showing Kate how much work they had completed.

Kate: Jesus, Jimmy, have you taken a break at all this week, I didn’t expect this much to be done.
Jimmy: hey have to keep the boss-lady happy. Anyway figure I owe you, you’ve sent quite a bit of work my way.
Kate: you deserve it, this is amazing.
Jimmy: the main bedroom is finished, floors came up brillant, when you having the furniture delivered.
Kate: haven’t picked any out yet, want to get all done first before I move in. What’s the situation with the office? I hope Mike hasn’t been a bother.
Jimmy: no, he helped clear out the office and has it all up and running in the stable office. Think he’s happier over there, suits him to be there keeping a closer eye on things.

Jimmy and Kate walked back downstairs towards the kitchen.
Kate: what about in here?

She walked in and stopped.
Jimmy: you all right, Kate?
Kate: am I what, it’s finished okay I’m either dreaming or have been away for a month.
Jimmy: no its just finished, patio area and decking also. I’m hoping that you can move in by the end of next week.
Kate just turned around and hugged him.
Kate: thanks a million, will definitely have to treat you and the missus to a week away.
Jimmy: Tom King has called a couple of times, think he was afraid we were having coffee breaks every hour.
Kate: He’s just worried about this place, he had hoped to buy it.
Jimmy: what is it with you breaking mens hearts, some things never change.
Kate: Jimmy, don’t let Maria hear you saying that. I better go do some furniture shopping.
Jimmy: don’t you dare bring Maria, my bank manager is still not talking to me after the last time.

Kate laughed as she walked away. Her own bank manager didn’t talk to her for a month either.


Charity got up from her chair as she heard a car come up the driveway. < who now, she’d never get noah to sleep at this rate> Charity opened the door to see Kate coming up the steps.

Charity: oh hi.. it’s you.
Kate: Nice to see you too, I was hoping to see Tom and thank him for keeping an eye on Home Farm for me. I guess this must be Noah.

Charity: He’s away for the day with Matthew, he didn’t tell me that you had asked him.
Kate: I didn’t, I guess he was just concerned about Home Farm. Can I?

Charity handed Noah over to Kate. Charity watched as Kate gently placed him against her chest and watched in awe as he stopped crying.

Charity: I’ve spent the last hour trying to get him to stop. How did you do that?
Kate: baby’s can sense everything, if you’re upset they will feel it. My brother’s first girl was a nightmare, we used to have to take turns for the first few months. How’s about sticking the kettle on, I’m parched.
Charity: ya, sure.

Charity led the way to the kitchen.
Charity: So what’s the story with you and Matthew.
Kate: Story? Nothing happening we’re just friends.
Charity: he’s been like a bear since the last week, even Tom’s worrying about him.
Kate: somehow I think Matthew is big enough to look after himself.
Charity: I guess so! How’s the renovations going?
Kate: It’s nearly finished, I didn’t expect it to be done so quick I haven’t even looked at any furniture.
Charity: I could help if you want. <maybe she wasn’t as bad as she had first thought and it was nice to see noah quiet>
Kate: that would be great, I hate shopping on my own and I don’t think Sadie and I quite have the same taste.

They both laughed, and Charity thought to herself <not given this woman enough credit at all>
After the tea they strapped Noah into his car seat and headed towards Leeds to do some shopping. On the way Charity rang Tom.

Charity: hi you, how’s everything going?
Charity nodded her head as Tom talked to her.
Charity: I’m going shopping with Kate for some furniture, Noah’s fine, out for the count, thanks to Kate. Just ringing to find out if it’s okay for Kate to stay in Victoria Cottage.

Charity could hear Tom asking Matthew in the background. Charity hung up the phone and looked at Kate.
Charity: don’t worry, no problem, they’ll be back about 7, you can have dinner with us and Matthew will bring you down to Victoria Cottage .

Kate smiled and let out a sigh of relief. <at least he was still talking to her>



Couple of hours later, Charity and Kate returned from their shopping trip. After bringing Noah in from the car she went back out to get the shopping bags.

Tom: Don’t think I’ll be opening the credit card bill next month. Buy anything nice?
Charity: don’t worry I got you something.
Tom: Hi there, Kate how was Bangkok?
Kate: Great, but glad to be home. Thanks for keeping an eye on Home Farm for me.
Tom: Sorry, just wanted to make sure that they were doing the job right.
Kate: I’ve used Jimmy before, he is the best, who should see how much work they’ve done up there, at the rate he’s working I’ll be able to move in end of next week.
Chairty: I’d murder a drink, Kate what would you like?
Kate: Vodka and white will be fine.

Tom looked at the bags sitting on the floor.

Tom: So did you two buy any furniture?
Kate: Got what I need for now, will be delivered on Wednesday.
Charity: We don’t mess about when there’s shopping to be done, I’ve never seen anyone shop so quick.
Kate: I’m not a shopping fan but my sister in law could clear a shopping mall in three hours, scary when she was in full flow.

They all started laughing just as Sadie and Jimmy came into the room.

Sadie: What’s so funny?
Tom: Don’t worry Sadie, you wouldn’t get it.

Sadie glared back at everyone and turned and left the room.

Jimmy: I hope you are all hungry, think we’ve cooked way to much food on the barbecue, come on out the back.

[irishgal]

Dont know what happened but number of read times as gone back to 0.


Part 8

They all got up and followed him out to the patio. Matthew and Carl were standing at the barbecue drinking some beer and Sadie was sitting at the table, sulking. Matthew watched Kate coming towards them. He had missed her but until now hadn’t realised how much. Carl handed out some paper plates and napkins.

Carl: Food’s ready, help yourselves.

When everyone had filled their plates they sat down at the table and tucked in.

Carl: So how’s the renovation going, Kate?
Kate: Amazing, nearly finished, will have to have a dinner party and show of the work when all finished.
Carl: no problem if there’s a party I’ll be there.
Matthew: What’s new?
Tom: So really how much work have you done?
Kate: if you want I’ll bring you up tomorrow and you can see for yourself.
Tom: that would be great.

After dinner and a couple of bottles of wine later, Matthew finally got to talk to Kate on his own.

Matthew: I would like to come with Dad tomorrow and see how much work has been done, if you don’t mind.
Kate: why would I mind, I’m wrecked would you mind if I got the keys for Victoria Cottage, I think the jet lag is starting to hit.
Matthew: I’ll walk you down, you won’t manage all them shopping bags on your own.
Kate: Was going to leave the bags, have a small bag in the car I can manage, but I’d like it if you walked me down anyway.

Kate smiled at him and finished off her drink. She said her goodbyes, grabbed her jacket and bag from the car. It was a lovely mild night, there was a full moon. They walked for a couple of minutes before saying anything.

Kate: Matthew, I’m sorry about what happened the other night, I hadn’t expected that call, I should have explained but you left before I got a chance.
Matthew: it’s okay I had an early start that’s why I left.
Kate knew the way he looked at her and the way he had forced himself to say that, that it wasn’t true.
Kate: do you mean that? Dean was nothing but a fling, a routine that both of us had got into and let drag on way too long, I spoke to him the other night and we called it a day. I told him I had met someone else and was starting to care for him and that hopefully he felt the same. Do you?

Matthew turned and looked at her and didn’t answer. He watched as the light of the full moon shone on her face and the way her eyes practically danced. He pushed her hair back from her face and pulled her close to him. He just held her and let her eyes swallow him up. He lent towards her face and gently rubbed his lips against hers.

Matthew: I do.

He pulled back and looked into her eyes for his answer. It was there, she smiled back at him and kissed him back, tenderly at first then they both kissed long and passionately, realising the tension that had built up even from the first time they had met.

Matthew: I’ve wanted to do that from the first moment I saw you.
Kate: it took you long enough.
Matthew: don’t worry I intend to make up for it.
Kate: we could just go back to Home Farm, less of a walk than going to the village.
Matthew: okay.

As they stood upstairs in Home Farm, they both realized that there was no furniture. Kate told him to wait there and she made her way downstairs. She eventually found a box and some sheets. On returning upstairs she found Matthew sitting on the floor with the large windows wide open.

Matthew: thought I would open them and let the light in. What have you got there?
Kate: Something my father bought for a camping trip but we never used.

Matthew watched with intrigue as Kate pulled out a square shaped pillow and plugged it into the wall.
He started laughing as he air fill into the pillow, which was actually a large airbed. He watched as she unplugged the pump and threw some sheets on to the bed. He stood up and walked towards her, watching her as she slowly removed her shirt and let it fall to the floor. She pulled him close and kissed him.

Matthew pulled the sheet up over her shoulders and watched Kate sleeping. <you’re finished now, mate> he thought to himself. He kissed her lightly on the cheek and whispered “I love you”.


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

[irishgal]

Part 9

Tuesday

They woke to hear a van pulling up outside.

Kate: Jesus, that will be the workmen, Jimmy will never let me live this one down if he finds us, come on.
Kate threw his clothes towards him and scrambled to get her own. Matthew starting laughing as he watched her nearly fall over as she tried to pull her jeans on. She looked back and sat down and started laughing with him. Leaning over Matthew kissed her tenderly.
Matthew: good morning to you too.
Kate: good morning.

After they were dressed, Matthew took a better look around the room.
Matthew: this is amazing, the fireplace is massive, I can’t believe that they had covered it up.
Kate: I know such a shame, but Jimmy has done a great job cleaning it up. I need to organise more furniture though.
Matthew: you mean furniture?
Kate: very funny, I have a bed got that’s all I need.


Over at Holdgate Farm

Tom is at the table in the kitchen reading the paper. When Sadie and Jimmy come into the kitchen.

Sadie: Good morning Dad?
Tom: Morning you two. There’s tea in the pot.
Jimmy: Anything interesting in the paper?
Tom: the property section!
Sadie: Oh Dad, we are trying to find somewhere its just so hard to get the right place? It’s a pity we didn’t get a chance at Home Farm though.
Tom: I’m sure we would have all liked to have got Home Farm but its not on the market, I get the impression from Kate this is her home and she is staying.
Sadie: might sit tight yet I can’t see anyone that has travelled so much would want to settle in a place like this.
Tom: you’re here.
Jimmy lifted the newspaper and didn’t say anything. He knew better let someone else be on the receiving end of Sadie’s tongue. He had listened to her giving out about Charity for the last hour and half.
Sadie: where’s Charity this morning?
Tom: She’s taken Noah for a walk.
Sadie: the fresh air might help him sleep I guess.

Tom left the paper and got up from the table.

Tom: see you two later.


Tom meets Matthew and Kate walking towards the house.

Tom: Good morning, you two.
Matthew: morning, Dad.
Kate: Tom
Tom: What’s the plan today?
Kate: I need to go into Leeds and organise some furniture. But if you want I can bring you up to Home Farm later to have a look.
Tom: if you like I could come furniture shopping with you? Mind you, just furniture.
Kate: That would be good, I don’t fancy going on my own.
Tom: it’s a date than, that’s if Matthew can manage without me.
Matthew: Ya no problem, nothing major planned today.
Kate: that’s great, I’m going to have a shower and get changed, we can go then, I need to make one stop before we go shopping though.
Tom: That’s fine, call for me when you’re ready to go, I’ll go see where Charity is and tell her our plans. Noah didn’t sleep to well last night, she took him for a walk to get him to sleep.

Tom walked towards the gate and just as he was about to turn onto the road, he caught Matthew kissing Kate goodbye out of the corner of his eye. He smiled to himself and thought to himself < well at least one of my boys has taste>

Matthew: See you later.
Kate: Later.
-----------------------

[irishgal]

Part 10

Matthew gave her the keys for Victoria Cottage so she could have a shower. Kate turned her car and made her way into the village.


When Kate drove into the village, she noticed Charity talking to her daughter Debbie outside the shop. She waved at her but continued onto Victoria Cottage. Charity caught up to her as she was getting out of the car.

Chairty: Hi there, did you get home alright last night?
Kate: I did, thanks, I heard you had another sleepless night.
Charity: ya, I give up, tried everything at this stage, any ideas? At this stage will try anything. Tom’s dying to get up to Home Farm for a look.
Kate: I know, I met him up at Holdgate Farm a few minutes ago, I hope you don’t mind but he has agreed to come furniture shopping with me.
Charity: you’re welcome to him, he might be more to help to you than me.
Kate’s mobile phone started ringing in the car.
Kate: Sorry Charity I need to take this, I’m expecting a call.
Charity: I’ll see you later.

Kate sat into the car and answered her phone.
Kate: Kate Tyler speaking.
Caller: Kate it’s Adrian Lyttle here, can you talk.
Kate; Ya no problem Adrian.

Kate pulled the car door closed and took out a notebook and pen.

Adrian: I’ve made some enquiries regarding the property you were interested in and you are in luck, the owner is quite interested in selling as he is losing money with the site sitting empty.
Kate: that’s great, what about planning?
Adrian: to be honest it could go either way, I think the main priority is getting the locals on your side from the start and you will be on a winner.
Kate: okay, what kind of money is he talking?
Adrian: starting from about ¼ million upwards.
Kate: Would he apply for planning in his name first if I was to put down an initial deposit on agreement to purchase if planning approved. Villagers might not pass any heed if he applied.
Adrian: I’ll give him a call and see what he thinks. What’s the highest you willing to pay?
Kate: I want that site, money is no problem, it is perfect and ideal for what I want.
Adrian: okay will be in touch, will also contact a couple of councillors and see what they think of a possible hotel been built there. Bye.

Kate hung up the phone and sat looking at the notes she had made. Planning was going to be tricky, the last thing she wanted to do was alienate anyone in the village, she had to live here. Kate punched a number into her phone and listened to the dialling tone.

Good morning, Kiely Associates, how may I help you?
Kate: Good morning, I would like to speak to Hugh Shannon, this is Kate Tyler.
Receptionist: Good morning, Ms Tyler just hold on and I will put you through.
Hugh: Good morning Kate how’s the country air treating you?
Kate: It’s great, I have two glowing cheeks.
Hugh; if I remember correctly you always had.
Kate: very funny, how’s everything there?
Hugh: the plans are finished I had them couried to you this morning, safe enough to send them to the post office there?
Kate: No problem, just spoke to Adrian Lyttle, reckons owner is interested in selling, planning could be our biggest hurdle, though, think we should provisionally apply in his name and see what the reaction is, what do you think?
Hugh: No harm, do you think much of a problem?
Kate: it’s hard to know, I mean it will bring money into the village and employment but will they want a large hotel?
Hugh: I thought about that and we decided to go with a design like Harley’s.
Kate: maybe, I will have a look and come back to you. Tell your family I said hello and I will be in touch. Goodbye.

Kate looked at her watch and thought she better get a move on if she wanted all the furniture sorted today.


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

[irishgal]

Part 11

Tom watched Matthew sitting at his computer.

Tom: you’re very quiet this morning? Anything happen last night you want to talk about.
Matthew: No, nothing.
Tom: Are you sure? You have quite a smile on you today.

Matthew looked up at his father.

Matthew: no, definitely not. What time is Kate calling for you?
Tom: I thought she would be here by now but you know what women are like?
Matthew: no I wouldn’t.

Tom chuckled to himself as he thought < that’s all going to change son,>. They both turned and looked out the window as they heard a car approaching. Kate stopped the car and got out. Matthew watched as she came towards the house unaware that they could see her.

Tom: quite a woman, don’t you think?
Matthew: don’t let Charity hear you saying that?
Tom: oh I don’t think Charity has anything to worry about, its not my heart she’s got a hold of. I’m happy for you.

Tom put his hand on Matthew’s shoulder and gently squeezed it. Matthew turned to ask what his father meant but he was already out the door.

Tom: I was beginning to think you had forgotten about me.
Kate: no, just got delayed, ready to go?
Tom: all yours, you better blow him a kiss, to keep him going till later.

Kate blushed and got back into the car.
Kate: whatever do you mean, Tom King.
Tom: I might be an old man but I ain’t no fool.

Kate looked back to see Matthew watching from the office window. She smiled at him and waited for him to smile back.

Tom: so are you going to tell me or have I to keep teasing you two?
Kate: it’s not up to me.
Tom: well I least you’ve answered me, Matthew looks the Cat that got the cream.

Kate turned the car and made her way out the driveway.

Kate: I guess you better have a look at Home Farm first before we go shopping and I can introduce you to Jimmy.
Tom: sounds good to me.


Back at Holdgate Farm, Jimmy and Matthew are in the office.

Jimmy: Sadie mentioned that she noticed some activity at the holiday park.
Matthew: I noticed Colin Barr there yesterday, I called in and had a chat with him, nothing stirring just keeping on eye on the cabins, think he had couple of attempted break-ins.
Jimmy: what’s he planning to do with it, it seems an awful waste just sitting there, has to be losing money.
Matthew: Thought of that too, might take a spin out that way later and have chat with him.
Jimmy: I’ll join you if you want.


Kate and Tom followed Jimmy into the kitchen.

Tom: this is amazing, so much light getting in.
Kate: wait till you see the patio and decking.

Tom followed Kate through the double doors onto the patio area.
Tom: I’m sorry Jimmy that I ever doubted you, this is amazing work, when you finished here, you will have to come over and have a look at Holdgate Farm for me.
Jimmy: no bother Mr King.
Tom: Tom.
Kate: come on at this rate, the shops will be closed.
Tom: okay, quick look upstairs and we can go then.

Kate showed Tom around upstairs and they left Jimmy to it.

Back in the car, Kate turned out of the village and headed for Leeds.

Tom: I have to say, the work you have had done is way beyond what I expected.
Kate: do you like it though?
Tom: you don’t need to ask that? So what’s on the shopping list?
Kate: organised kitchen furniture and main bedroom yesterday, need to organise garden seating, sofas for main sitting room, Jimmy’s wife is an interior designer she is going to organise everything else.
Tom: you are well organised.
Kate: force of habit, one thing I got from my father, if it’s to be done do it right.
Tom: I would liked to have known your father, I met him once or twice at Tate’s parties but never really got to know him.
Kate: you would have liked him, you remind me of him, a real family man. Found out to late though would have liked to have known him better myself.
Tom: regrets don’t do anything but cause pain, I’m sure wherever he his, he’s proud of you.
Kate: I hope so.
---------------------------

[irishgal]

Part 12
A couple of hours later

Tom: okay, that’s all from this list. How you doing with yours?
Kate looked down her list.
Kate: all done, all to be delivered on Thursday and Sheila will do the finishing at the weekend if all goes to plan I can move in this day week.

Kate’s phone started to ring again.

Kate: I’m sorry Tom I need to take this.

Tom waved her off as he went into the newsagent. He watched her talking on the phone.

Kate: oh, Adrian that’s brilliant, what figure did you offer and he’s okay with the planning going in his name?
Adrian: 350K of which 50 is his for the planning application.
Kate: Perfect, I will have the plans in the morning, you can call for them when I have a final look and if I’m happy get it in motion, I want the contract signed asap, I don’t want to lose this and in such a small village.
Adrian: already have my secretary typing up the contract as we speak
Kate: Thank you again, Adrian. Goodbye.

Tom watched Kate hang up her phone and smile to herself.

Tom: good news?
Kate: something like that, a business opportunity I couldn’t pass by.
Tom: anything interesting?
Kate: no.

Kate didn’t want to say too much, that was another thing her father had taught her well, nothing is ever final until the ink is dry.

Tom: time for home, this old man has done enough shopping for one day.

The whole way back they talked about her travels and his family. Tom knew she was hiding something it was obvious the way she had hesitated but he respected her for that, he had seen a lot of deals being lost by loose lips.



Later that Evening, Matthew and Jimmy took a spin by the holiday park and found Colin Barr in the office.

Colin: Matthew twice in one week, what do I owe the pleasure.
Matthew: just been neighbourly, it’s a pity that you can’t find a good manager for this place, would be a goldmine if ran properly.
Colin: Sure is, but hopefully wont be my problem for much longer.
Jimmy: selling up?
Colin: no ……. I’ve interviewed a manager so hopefully if it works out.
Matthew: pity we could have discussed a figure. Maybe if it doesn’t work out you could give us a call and we could have a chat.
Colin: no problem, if you excuse me I need to lock up.

When Matthew and Jimmy got into the car. Jimmy lit on Matthew.

Jimmy: why did you let that go, it was obvious he was holding something back.
Matthew: I’m not that stupid, when we get back to the office, will call Adrian Lyttle, if anything is happening Lyttle will know and he owe’s us one.


When Matthew and Jimmy returned to Holdgate Farm, their father had already returned from his shopping trip.

Tom: hi boys, where have you two been?
Matthew: doing a little research, we need to talk to you in the office.

Tom followed his sons into the office.

Tom: what’s going on?
Matthew: we’ve just been up with Colin Barr at the Holiday Park, I think we should call Adrian Lyttle and see if Barr is selling up?
Tom: did he say he was?
Matthew: no but it was the way he denied it.
Jimmy handed Tom the phone.
Jimmy: I have Adrian Lyttle on hold.

Tom: Good evening Adrian, sorry to be calling you out of the office.
Adrian: no problem, Tom what can I do for you?
Tom: do you know anything about the Holiday Park belonging to Colin Barr and would he be interested in selling?
Tom waited for Adrian to answer.

Tom: Adrian you still there?
Adrian: sorry, Tom, I’m watching my kids playing outside. I was talking to Colin Barr earlier in the week but he never mentioned anything about selling to me.
Tom: thank you, I might take a spin up there and have a chat with him myself , he might just need a push in the right direction, sorry for taking up your time.

Tom replaced the receiver and grabbed his jacket.

Tom: let’s go for a drive, boys.
Matthew: what did he say?
Tom: like you said, it was more what he didn’t say.

[irishgal]

Part 13
Kate wrapped the towel around her and rushed downstairs to answer her phone.

Kate: Kate Tyler
Adrian: Kate, its Adrian Lyttle, I think we may have a problem. I’ve just had a call from Tom King wondering whether I know if the Holiday Park was up for sale.
Kate sat down and thumped the table.
Kate: do I need to be worried?
Adrian: I hope not, we made a good offer and your name is not tied to anything yet, I told him I was dealing for a company based in London.
Kate: okay let’s just sit on it for the moment and see what the Kings have to offer.


Rachel Barr opened the door to see three men standing on her porch.

Rachel: Can I help you?
Tom: My name is Tom King, I was hoping to speak to your husband, Colin.
Rachel: oh right… if you want to come inside I will get him for you.

Colin: Tom this is becoming a habit, twice in one day.
Tom: I’m sorry Colin but I have a proposition for you and no point wasting time. I’m interested in making you an offer on the Park, I reckon you have to be losing money with it sitting vacant and I’m sure you and your wife would like to take a holiday.
Colin: you better take a seat then. Rachel, will you bring us in some tea. So what are you offering?
Tom: So you are interested in selling?
Colin: have to keep my options open.
Tom: well, we reckon at present its market value is ¼ million.
Colin shook his head in agreement.
Matthew: so how about 350 cash?
Colin: don’t know, if I went for a public auction I might get more.
Matthew: true, but you also could get less seeing that it needs a lot of work and has been sitting idle for at least a year.
Colin: I think I might take that gamble, I have nothing to lose on it?
Tom: 400
Colin: I need some time to think about it?
Tom: that offer is on the table till this time tomorrow evening, if you interested ring us before 8 and we will have the papers drawn up.

Colin showed Tom, Matthew and Jimmy to their car.

Rachel: well who would have thought, 2 offers in the same week, I thought we would never get rid of that place.
Colin: I know what you mean, I’m going to ring Lyttle might be able to wrangle another couple of k out of them yet.


On the way back to Holdgate Farm.

Jimmy: that went well I thought.
Tom just looked at Matthew.
Matthew: maybe but we still don’t know who the other buyer is yet?
Tom: I don’t think we need to look to far, I have a suspicion about the buyer.
Matthew: who?
Tom: let’s just wait and see.


Wednesday morning

Kate: hi Adrian it’s Kate any development?
Adrian: kings have offered 400k cash.
Kate: What had Barr to say for himself?
Adrian: he said he didn’t mention who the buyers were.?
Kate: but? What figure is he looking for?
Adrian: 600k?
Kate: greedy? 600k and if we get planning permission he still wants the other 50k?
Adrian: 100K
Kate: 650k and will worry about the planning myself. That’s my offer he has till 6 this evening, I want papers signed tonight, I’m not losing this but I don’t want to throw money into it and not get planning. Don’t ring me till you have a signature.

Up at Holdgate Farm

Matthew: so Dad, are you going to let me in on your suscipion?
Tom: Only two obvious buyers.
Matthew: Rodney Blackstock and?
Tom: Love is blind ……..
Matthew: what?
Tom: oh come on we both know who has that kind of money at hand.
Matthew: Kate?
Tom: why not? She’s a shrewd business woman, you only have to look at her stock profile to see that?
Matthew: what stock profile?
Tom: have I taught you anything?

Tom threw a file over to Matthew. Matthew opened it and started flicking through pages.

Tom: according to that she’s worth at least 20 billion or at least the hotel group is, from what I can figure her personal worth is more like 10 billion. I’m just curious what she has planned for the Holiday Park.

Matthew didn’t answer he just kept flicking through the file. His father was right, love is blind or lust is. He couldn’t believe he hadn’t seen this side of her, according to the pages in front of him, she had spent the last eight years along with her brother buying up properties and since her brother had passed away she had bought out 2 of the largest hotel groups in Asia.


Adrian: That is our final offer, Mr Barr.
Colin: I need time to think about it.
Adrian: Mr Barr this offer is valid till 6 this evening if the papers aren’t signed by then we will be looking elsewhere, I already have two other properties lined up for my buyer.
Colin: I’ll ring you back in a couple of minutes.

Tom King picked up the phone.

Tom: 700K, I’m sorry Colin at the most I would consider 600 it is definitely not worth 600.

Matthew scribbled on a piece of paper and showed his father.

Tom: 650K that’s my final offer.
Colin: hold on a minute.

Colin picked up his mobile and pressed redial.


Kate was in the shop talking to Sadie King when her phone rang.

Kate: Kate Tyler
Adrian: Can you talk?
Kate: not really but go on?
Adrian: 650
Kate: go to 7 and that’s it.
Adrian: hold on.

Sadie: what do you think Kate, dinner this evening, I’m sure Dad and Matthew would like to see you?
Kate turned and covered the speaker.
Kate: I’m not sure I can make it, I have a meeting in Leeds, I’m just waiting for confirmation.
Sadie: oh ok, I’ll hold on then.

Tom had talked to Sadie earlier in the day and discussed his suspicions and asked her to make it her business to spend as much time with Kate as possible.

Adrian: Kate, its yours, will have the papers tonight for you, will email a copy tonight.
Kate: that’s great, see you then and Adrian, you’re a star.

Kate made sure Sadie heard that last bit, did Tom King really think that sending Sadie up to spy she was going to learn something useful that Kate didn’t want him to know.


Colin: I’m sorry, Mr King I am going with the other buyer but thanks for you interest, goodbye.

Colin turned hugged his wife, and asked her how did a month in the Bahamas sound.

Tom slammed down the receiver.
Tom: Jimmy get a hold of Sadie and see what the hell is going on?
Matthew: she’s got it then.
Tom: looks like it. Who does she think she is coming into our village and taking it over. I accepted Home Farm and I had hoped that maybe if thinks worked out with you and her that she might consider selling it and moving to Leeds with you but I guess I read her all wrong.

Matthew stood up and lifted his keys.

Tom: where are you going?
Matthew didn’t answer but thought to himself <I need to remove a lodger from Victoria Cottage>

[irishgal]

Part 14


Sadie: good news, Kate?
Kate: You could say that, you might as well hear it from me, I’m sure Tom is waiting for your call. I’ve just purchased the Holiday Park. I think you better give this to Matthew I have somewhere else to stay till Home Farm is ready.
Kate handed Sadie the keys of Victoria Cottage handed Emily a #20 note for the shopping and left the shop. Sadie followed her out to ask her what she meant.


Outside as Kate made her way towards the B & B she met Rodney.

Rodney: Good evening, Kate, Just had an interesting chat with Alan Turner in Spain, he was asking how you were getting on at the B & B.
Kate: You can tell him I moved in today and everything is great, very happy with it, how’s he enjoying his retirement?
Rodney: so it is true?
Kate: why not, it’s a good investment, I have the money and even if I was to sell it on would still make a tiny profit. If you don’t mind Rodney I really need to get settled in.

Rodney walked back towards the shop to be stopped by Sadie King.

Sadie: What is she going to the B & B for its closed.
Rodney: well it seems she owns it.
Sadie: what?

Rodney laughed to himself as he walked on towards the Woolie.

Sadie got into her car and drove like a mad woman back to holdgate farm.


Jimmy: Here’s Sadie now.

Jimmy went to the door and opened it as Sadie came barging in.

Sadie: Dad, you were right, she got the Holiday Park and you’re not going to believe this. She has also bought the B & B.
Tom: what the hell, when?
Sadie: I don’t know but she gave me these to give to Matthew and told me she had somewhere else to stay till Home Farm was ready. Where is he?
Jimmy: he left about 5 minutes ago? I’d hate to be in Kate Tyler’s shoes when he gets a hold of her.

Tom went to the drinks press and poured himself a large whiskey. Sadie and Jimmy joined him.


Kate poured another glass of whiskey and sat looking at the wall. Wondering had she done the right thing, it had never been this hard, well it had been tough and ruthless but she had never been personally involved with any of the other business deals, to her it was just a building in another city, this was supposed to have been a new start, a new life, a proper life with family and friends. Now what, making enemies of the Kings was it going to be a mistake, she knew that any future with Matthew was over. He was a shrewd businessman even possibly sneaky and underhand if he had to. But his family was important and she knew that by crossing Tom she had crossed Matthew.

She decided no point drinking all alone, the Kings weren’t the first people she had upset and were probably not going to be the last. Knocking back her glass of whiskey, she grabbed her bag and made her way to the woolie.


When Kate entered the Woolie, it was full and nobody passed any heed on her. <so far so good, whole village not ready to stone me yet> she thought to herself.

Diane: Hi, Kate what can I get you?
Kate: a single malt, a large one.
Diane: Tough day?
Kate: Something like that.
Diane: How’s the B & B?
Kate: news travels fast.
Diane: to be honest, Alan told me before he left and asked me not to say anything. I seen you go in earlier so I guessed it was okay to say something.
Kate: its fine, will probably only be in it till Monday, hopefully.
Diane: looking forward to the housewarming party.
Kate: don’t worry you will be invited, might be the only one to come but I’m giving you a personal invite now.
Diane: Why do you say that?
Kate: You might as well know, I’m sure it will be public knowledge by morning. I’ve purchased Barr’s Holiday Park.
Diane: Good on you, no harm in that.
Kate: hope not, don’t know if the Kings would agree though?
Diane: were they interested in it also?
Kate: you know what it’s like, small village seen some activity going on and tried to beat me to the line.
Diane: here, give me that, you should be drinking champagne and celebrate your good news. Maybe you should get in before the Kings do and announce it now, will look better.
Kate: What the hell?

Kate stood up on her stool and banged her glass in the counter.

Kate: Excuse me can I have everybody’s attention.

Everyone turned around to look at Kate.

Kate: I would like to buy everyone a drink and help me celebrate the purchase of the Holiday Park, which I hope to improve and in turn bring more business into the village and offer some valuable employment.

Diane passed out the glasses of champagne and when everyone had a drink, they raised their glasses to the Holiday Park and Kate Tyler. Just as Tom King and family came into the pub.
Diane poured some more champagne into Kate’s glass and put her hand on her arm and whispered in her ear.

Diane: Chin up, don’t ever let them see the cracks in public.

Louise: What can I get you Tom?
Tom: single malt, what’s the celebration for?
Louise: it seems Kate has bought the Holiday Park.
Tom: so it seems.

Tom raised his glass to Kate and knocked it back.
Tom: another, please Louise.

Jarvis: Kate, I’d like to congratulate you on your purchase but I hope you will be open with us about your plans from the start, I am sure you are aware of the problems that a delay in planning can cause.
Kate: Don’t worry, Jarvis, well aware of it? Have no solid plans yet but as soon as I know will have a meeting with the locals to discuss them. I’m not planning anything major or obtrusive, maybe just expand on its potential.
Jarvis: That’s good to know.

Jarvis returned to his seat and discussed his news with the rest of the table. After a couple of hours chit chatting with the locals, Kate helped Diane clear up.

Kate: Thanks a million for tonight, Diane I don’t think I would have managed without your support.
Diane: no problem, anytime my door is always open. Did you get a chance to speak to any of the Kings?
Kate: I don’t think I’m on their list of favourite persons at the moment, they left fairly quickly, but I guess they will just have to get over it, business is business.
Diane: How about one for the road?
Kate: no, better leave it, maybe some other time.

Diane walked Kate to the door and said goodnight.

[irishgal]

Matthew had been sitting in his car waiting for Kate to return to Victoria Cottage, his father had rang his mobile at least 10 times but he wasn’t in the mood to talk to him. He had to see her, find out what else she was planning. No-one had ever done his family out of a deal and gotten away with it and he wasn’t sure whether he was mad with her or himself for not noticing a great business opportunity sitting on his own doorstep. He heard the door of the pub open and watched Diane and Kate say goodbye. Matthew sat back into his seat and watched her walk towards the B & B. She suddenly stopped and turned back and looked around her after satisfying herself that no-one was there she continued onto the B & B. Matthew watched till all the lights were turned off in the B & B. He started his car and slowly drove out of the village.


Thursday morning, Kate met Adrian Lyttle and took possession of the deeds and keys of the Holiday Park and returned to Home Farm just as her furniture was been delivered.


Meanwhile over at Holdgate Farm

Tom: if she thinks she can get away with this? She has another thing coming? Where the hell is Matthew?
Jimmy: I don’t know, his phone is turned off.
Tom: find him, we need to do something about her now?
Matthew: Looking for me? Do something about who?
Tom: who? Who? You have the cheek to ask who? That bitch wormed her way in here and stabbed us in the back.
Matthew: from what I figure we tried to stab her in the back, we hadn’t even considered purchasing the holiday Park until we knew someone was interested in it.
Jimmy: you’re taking her side in all this?
Matthew: I’m not taking anyone’s side I am telling it as it is.
Tom: you better be on our side, nobody crosses the King family and gets away with it.
Matthew: let it go Dad, the best person won.
Tom: let it go, I think you better decide who means more to you, her or your family?
Matthew: what?
Tom: I’m serious its either her or us but I’m telling you now, you choose her and you can forget about getting your hands on my business.

Matthew watched his father and Jimmy walk out of the office. He was serious it was either his family or Kate. He never thought his father would take it this hard. Matthew stood up and lifted his car keys and made his decision. He walked out through the house and before he left he opened a drawer in the hall cabinet and removed a picture from an album and placed it into his jacket pocket.


Later that evening, Kate turned up the volume of her stereo and sat down at the table to eat her tea. When the doorbell went. < who the hell can this be?>

Kate opened the door.

Kate: hi!
Matthew: you going to ask me in?
Kate stood back and let Matthew walk past her noticing the bag he was carrying.
Kate: thought I’d be the last person who wanted to see?
Matthew: I was told to choose and I guess I’ve made my decision.
Kate: What?
Matthew: it was you or my family? And to be honest I want you more than I want my family?
Kate: did you tell your father that?
Matthew: he’ll figure it out soon enough. Come here.

Matthew pulled her close to him and kissed her. He took her hand and led her upstairs.


Kate sat and watched him sleeping. She quietly made her way downstairs and turned on the t.v., she couldn’t sleep, she knew whatever he thought, ton King wasn’t going to let his son walk away that easy and knew there was going to be hell to pay when he realised what decision his son had made. Flicking through the channels she stopped on the news channel as she recognised the pictures on the screen. Suddenly her phone started to ring.

Kate: Hello?
Caller: Kate? Its Gary Hunt here, turn on Sky news? Have you seen what’s happened.
Kate held the phone to her ear and watched the scene unfold on the screen.

Kate: Jesus, Gary what happened?
Gary: a bomb, the hotel is destroyed, Kate it was full, over 2,000 people, at least 1800 dead.
Kate: Gary, I’m getting the next flight out I will be there as soon as possible.
Gary: okay.

Kate hung up her phone and started dialling.

Kate: Good morning, can you tell me when is the earliest flight to Bankgok?

“there is a 7am flight,”<br>
Kate give the airline her details and made her way upstairs and pulled a bag from the spare room, checking that her passport and credit cards were in her bag, she debated whether to wake Matthew. Deciding it was probably for the best that she didn’t, she made her way downstairs and wrote him a note.

She closed the door of the B & B behind her, put her bag into her car and taking an envelope from the back seat placed the two sets of keys into it along with a note asking Diane to keep an eye on both home Farm and the B & B and that as soon as possible she would be in touch.

As she drove out of the village she wiped the tears from her face and thought to herself, < god works in mysterious ways, Kate Tyler>.


Matthew made his way downstairs calling for Kate when he noticed that the t.v. was on and there was a note on the table. As he noticed, the images of the hotel bombing on the t.v., he held the note in his hands. He didn’t even have to read it, she was gone. He placed the note into his jacket pocket beside the picture of his mother and left to go home to his family.



About 3 months weeks later… Kate placed a phone call to The Woolpack.

Kate: Diane?
Diane: Kate, it’s great to hear from you, are you okay?
Kate: getting there, we had the last memorial service yesterday, now need to decide what to do about the hotel?
Diane: will you not rebuild it?
Kate: no, we might propose a community centre to be honest, Diane, I don’t know, nobody does. Anyway, I didn’t ring to upset you, I was just wondering how things were going?
Diane: Great, I was up at Home Farm yesterday, Sheila and Jimmy have done a great job and Jimmy has had a good security system fitted, he said he will email you the details for when you come home.
Kate: and the B & B?
Diane: flat out, all of Alan’s trade have come back, its great to have something other than the pub to look after, it’s a great excuse to get away from Val if you know what I mean.
Kate: I appreciate you doing this for me, to be honest Diane I don’t know when I will be back so I have spoken to Rachel about making you a partner in the B & B it’s the least I can do.
Diane: don’t be silly.
Kate: no it’s the right thing to do.
Diane: Matthew was in last night, he asked about you? Diane lied he hadn’t asked but she knew he wanted to he just didn’t want anyone to know he was hurting, but she had seen him up at Home Farm.
Kate: He’s doing well?
Diane: he’s okay.
Kate: Diane, I need to go, look Rachel will be in touch regarding the B & B, it will be a couple of weeks before I will get chance to ring but thanks again for all your help.

Kate replaced the receiver, she didn’t need to go but the last thing she needed was to talk about Matthew, it hurt too much.

[irishgal]

Part 16

Sasha: Kate, are you okay? You’re very pale.

Kate looked up to see her sister in law standing in front of her.

Kate: Sasha, what are you doing here?
Sasha: after our last chat, I decided that it wasn’t doing you any good coping with this on your own and Kyle agreed so I’m here to help.

Kate stood up and hugged Sasha. Sasha held her sister-in-law close and waited for the tears to come.

Sasha: what a mess you’ve gotten yourself into, if your brother could see you now, if would never forgive me for letting you do this on your own.
Kate: you have your family.
Sasha: you are my family, I never should let you have talked me out of not coming sooner. You’ve lost at least 2 stone, have you been to a doctor lately.
Kate: what for, you know what the food is like here?
Sasha: the first thing we are going to do is get you to a doctor?
Kate: I’m fine.
Sasha: well if you are fine it won’t do any harm to see the doctor, will it?

Kate agreed with her, Sasha was right, she hadn’t really been looking after herself, it was so hard trying to put on a brave face and help so many people with their grief. But as the owner of the hotel she had to be there and show her support. The board had wanted the hotel to be rebuilt but as she had majority share she decided that there was no way the hotel was going to be rebuilt, it was time to do something worthwhile with her money and this was the one thing she could think of.


Sasha: hi, kyle, I’m fine, listen Kate and I are getting a flight to JFK on Friday, she’s going to stay with us for a while, ya, everything is tied up here, will you meet us?
Kyle: no problem, is Kate okay? What time is your flight in?
Sasha: she’s good just needs to look after herself from now on, will tell you all when we get home, due in at 4.30, see you then, give the girls a hug for me. Love you.


New York, five months later.

Kate placed the flowers on the grave. <hi, guys, just wanted to say goodbye, I’m heading back to England, tomorrow, to Home Farm, I’m sorry I let you down, Dad, James but Sasha and Kyle are going to help me from now on. I wish you guys were here to see me, and how everything has changed over the last few months, but I hope you are proud of me. I miss you both so much, I love you> Kate stood up and took another look at her father and brother’s headstone.

Sasha: all packed?
Kate: Kyle took the last bag out to the car, I wish I could stay but its time I went home.
Sasha: We’ll see you in the New Year, the girls can’t wait to see where their Dad grew up.
Kate: Thanks for everything.

Sasha hugged Kate and walked out to the car with her. They said goodbye and Kyle left Kate to the airport.


Seven hours later, Kate was sitting in her rental car, watching everyone rushing home to be with loved ones for the New Year. Kate started the engine and pulled out of the parking lot, no point sitting moping, long enough drive to Emmerdale to think about things.

The last seven months so much had happened and changed. Kyle and Sasha had bought her share of the international businesses, she had sold 85% of the UK business and sold the Asian sector on completion of the Community Centre and had recently visited it and it was the best thing she had ever done. She still had her shares in all and with the Holiday Park, she was looking forward to some downtime and getting to know herself and Home Farm.

It was about 9.30pm when she drove through the village, there was nobody to be seen but by the sounds of things, the party was alive and kicking in the Woolie. She thought about stopping but figured if she didn’t get to lie down soon, her ankles would be the size of balloons.

She punched in the code that Jimmy had emailed her for the gates, and waited till they opened. It looked so quiet and empty, she couldn’t wait to get in and finally be home. Opening the boot she decided that for now the small suitcase would do, the thought of carrying in the big ones would be a nightmare and figured would have more energy in the morning to go lifting suitcases.

Turning the key in the door, she heard the beeping noise of the alarm, she pressed in the code and waited for the beeps to stop. Closing the door behind her she could feel the warmth of the place and wondered why if felt so warm. She hit the light switch on the wall and looked around her in amazement, the place was covered in decorations and a welcome home banner was hanging at the bottom of the stairs. She opened the doors into the front lounge and only then realised there was already lights on, she looked over to the corner where a huge Christmas tree covered in lights greeted her. Rubbing the tears away from her eyes, she made her way over to it. Underneath it was a box wrapped in silver paper with her name on it.
Pulling the paper away she found a card on top of a box, opening the card, she read:

To our darling sister,
Thought a small welcome home gift would be nice so contacted Sheila and Jimmy
And asked them to decorate and make sure the house was warm, don’t want you two getting cold.

See you both soon, lots of love, your family.

In the box was a picture of Kyle, Sasha and the girls sitting under their xmas tree on Christmas morning, she had taken the picture. Also in the box was some chocolate chip cookies.

Taking one of the biscuits, she put the box down on the table.

Kate: guess, little one time to show you around your new home. Kate patted her large bump as she made her way upstairs.

Sheila and Jimmy had done an amazing job throughout the house, Kate had never expected it to look his good and she knew she had finally come home. Opposite her bedroom, the door was closed and a note was hanging on the door. It read:

You can have a look in but DO NOT ENTER.
It’s Bad Luck

Kate opened the door a small bit and turned on the light switch. She quickly closed the door to the nursery and smiled to herself. < not yet, little one, not taking any chances with you>

Kate went back downstairs and turned all the lights off other than the hall light. She switched on the t.v. and eventually figured out how to turn on the gas fire. She got herself a drink of milk from the fully stocked fridge in the kitchen and sat down in front of her gas fire and beautiful Christmas tree with her box of cookies to ring in the New Year.

[irishgal]

Part 17

While Kate was looking around Home Farm, a New Year’s Party was being held in Holdgate Farm.

Tom: I think we should have got more drink, I’ll pop down to the Woolie and get some more?
Sadie: no I think we’re okay.
Tom: no it’s alright, want to get Diane and whoever else is below anyway, might as well have everyone here, won’t be long.

Tom lifted his jacket and looked for his car keys.

Jimmy; Dad, you will have to take Matthew’s car, you’re blocked in, here’s the keys.
Tom caught the keys and made his way out to Matthew’s car.

Tom loved this time of year, it was always good to have all the family at home, but this year things were different with Noah in the house Christmas was that little bit more special, and the boys had finally accepted Charity well as much as they ever would. If he could only find some way of making Matthew happy, he had never got over Kate leaving. He didn’t let on but Tom knew he was hurting, he was the same when Mary had died, had been for a long time.

Tom started the car and made his way into the village passing by Home Farm on his way, he didn’t give it much thought until he parked outside the Woolie that he could have sworn he had seen a light go on and off. He thought to himself that he must have just being imagining things. As he got out of the car he realised he hadn’t brought his wallet. He sat back into Matthew’s car and hoped that there was a company chequebook in the car. He opened the glove compartment and some papers fell out. He lifted the papers up and noticed a photo of his wife and a note with Matthew’s name on the front. He opened the page and read:

Matthew

I’m truly sorry to leave this way but it is for the best, I could never forgive myself if you and your father weren’t talking because of me. I never really got to know my father before he died and I regret it so much and I know you might think you would be happy with me as you family but I knew you wouldn’t. I don’t think your father would either, I care for your father very much and I don’t want to hurt him either.

I do love you, I’ve loved you since the first night you made me dinner, do you remember you told me you wanted me to remember my first meal at Home Farm, I will have that memory for the rest of my life.

I know it hurts right now and you will probably hate me for a long time but please forgive me, it might take some time but in time you will realise I am doing this for both of us.

Love Always
Kate


Tom read the note again, and placed it back into the glove compartment. Matthew had never mentioned her again since that morning he came to the house and said she had left for Bangkok. She was right though it would have broken his heart if she had taken Matthew away from him but maybe over time they would have sorted things out but he figured they would never know now. Tom took the chequebook out of the glove compartment and made his way in to the Woolie. After paying for the drinks, Bob and Diane said they would follow him up to Holdgate Farm, everyone was there anyway, they had cleaned the pumps twice at that stage and were ready for home when Tom had called in.

Tom made his way back to Holdgate Farm but this time he slowed down just to be sure that his imagination was playing tricks on him. He pulled into Home Farm and turned off his lights, it wasn’t his imagination, their definitely lights on. He punched the code into the keypad for the gates and they opened. He had remained friendly with Jimmy Lynott and any time Jimmy was in the area he would call to Tom and keep him up to date with how Kate was getting on. He never told Matthew, he had planned to but the time was never right.

Kate stirred from the couch as she thought she heard a car approaching. She turned the volume down and listened, < no, must have been the t.v> she thought as she turned the t.v. off, <time for bed>. She startled when she heard the knock at the door, <who the hell was calling at this time of the night>. She wrapped her cardigan around her and made her way to the door. She stood at the door and called out.

Kate: who’s there?
Tom: Kate, is that you? It’s Tom King here.
Kate opened the door a small bit and looked out to indeed see Tom King standing at her door.
Tom: well stranger, when did you get home?
Kate: about an hour ago.
Tom: are you going to invite me in?
Kate stood and thought about what to do.
Kate: to be honest, Tom, I’m not up to company, I’m pretty wrecked after the flight.
Tom: it’s New Year’s Eve, you shouldn’t be on your own, look if your worried about the whole Holiday Park affair, I’ve put the whole thing behind me, if I am honest, I’ve missed you. We’ve missed you. Come on let me in.

Kate stood back and opened the door. Closing the door behind him she turned to him and he hugged her.

Tom: it’s so good to see you.

He suddenly stood back and took a good look at her.

Tom: wow, look at you, you look amazing, when’s the baby due?
Kate: end of January.
Tom: it’s Matthew’s isn’t it?

Kate didn’t answer.

Tom: I found the note you left for him. He misses you so much, he still loves you.
Kate: it’s not his.

She had said it before she had thought about it.

Tom: Kate, I’m not stupid, I can count, come on, get your coat.

Tom looked for her coat.

Kate: no, really Tom, I’m tired, I don’t think I could face anyone tonight.
Tom: I’m not taking no for an answer. It’s all my fault that things have ended up this way and I’m going to sort it out before the New Year.

Kate lifted her keys from the table and opened the door.

Kate: I’ll be okay like this, come on before I change my mind.

Tom closed the door of the car and went around to the driver’s side. They drove to Holdgate Farm in silence. Tom parked the car around the back of the house.

Tom: come we can go in this way and I will find Matthew, if you want you can wait in the office, I’m sure you don’t want to talk to him in front of the whole village.

Kate nodded and followed him towards the kitchen door. She placed her hand on her bump, to settle the baby. She was kicking like mad, she had never felt her kick this hard. Tom turned around to see was she okay. He went back to her.

Tom: are you okay?
Kate: I’m fine, just a wee bit nervous, are you sure this is the right thing to do? Maybe should wait till tomorrow.
Tom: no, not giving you a chance to leave without telling him that you love him and that you are having his baby.

Tom took her hand and led her to the house.

Kate let herself into the office and stood by the window watching some of the guests talking outside.


Jimmy: Dad, where have you been?
Tom: Jimmy, why don’t you and Carl go get the drink from the boot of Matthew’s Car its out the back.
Carl: why did you park it out the back?
Tom: we hardly want people to think we ran out of drink, do we? Where’s Matthew?
Jimmy: I think he’s upstairs, not in the party mood as usual.
Tom: hurry on and bring the drink in, 30 minutes left till midnight.

Tom lifted two drinks from a tray and made his way upstairs. He found Matthew in the nursery watching Noah sleep.

Matthew: I’m sorry, I’m not really in the party mood and figured this would be the last place anyone would look for me.
Tom: why didn’t you tell me?

Tom handed Matthew one of the drinks.

Matthew: Tell you what?
Tom: I found the note Kate left you.
Matthew: what the hell, were you doing going through my car.
Tom: never mind that, why didn’t you tell me, I’m your father for god’s sake.
Matthew: if I remember correctly it was the family or her, I choose the family.
Tom: she made the choice for you, that’s why she left, that’s how much she loves you. I know what its like to lose the love of your life, when your mom died, part of me died. But Kate isn’t dead, you could go get her.
Matthew: I tried already, even managed to fly to Bangkok, but she had left for New York when I got there. So I came home.
Tom: come on back downstairs, it’s almost new year, time to put the past behind us. Noah’s fine.

Tom and Matthew made their way back downstairs.

Tom: Matthew, why don’t you go into the office, there’s a bottle of whiskey in the bottom drawer of the filing cabinet, been saving it for a special occasion.
Matthew: but there’s plenty of drink in the kitchen.
Tom: for once Matthew please do what I ask you without asking me why.

Matthew looked at his father and figured it was probably easy to just go get it.

Charity came up to Tom and put her arms over his shoulders.

Charity: what are you smiling about?
Tom: at last, all my family are here. Come on its nearly midnight, lets get some champagne opened.
Tom led Charity back into the party, he would see Matthew later.


Kate turned as she heard the office door opening. Matthew pushed opened the door and hopped when he noticed a figure at the window. Switching on the lights.

Matthew: the party’s out there? What are you ………….? Kate? What?

Kate: hi.

Matthew switched of the lights and turned them on again. Turning them off again, he made his way towards her.

Matthew: Kate.
He reached out for her face expecting to feel nothing, thinking it was only a memory. But when he felt her soft skin next to his hand, he opened his eyes and smiled.

Matthew: Kate
Kate: yes.

Matthew pulled her close to him and kissed her tenderly on her lips. He could feel the tears on her face and he pulled back to rub them but realised they weren’t her tears. Kate raised her hands to his face and rubbed the tears away. They both jumped when they felt the kick.

[irishgal]

Part 17 (Final bit)

Matthew: what the hell?
Kate: that would be your daughter saying hello.

Matthew looked at Kate’s bump and then looked at Kate.

Matthew: mine?
Kate: Ours

All of a sudden there was a sudden bang from outside and everyone was shouting happy new year as the fireworks roared into the sky.

Matthew: Happy New Year. I love you.
Kate: Happy New Year, I love you too.
Matthew: Kate Tyler, I am never letting you out of my sight again, do you hear me?
Kate: yes. I like the sound of that.
Matthew: so I guess, we better get married then? No daughter of mine coming into this world without the King name.
Kate: is that so? If you are serious you better improve the proposal.

Matthew stood back, got down on one knee and took her hands.

Matthew: Kate Tyler will you marry me and put me out of my misery?
Kate: yes.
Matthew stood up and kissed her.
Matthew: Hello Mrs King.
Kate: Hello Mr King.
Matthew: Come on, my father will be climbing the walls wondering whether we have copped ourselves on. Plus might as well give them all something to remember the Kings first New Year party.

Matthew wiped the tears from her face and took her hand and led her out to the party.

Matthew and Kate stood at the door watching everyone looking up at the fireworks, they waited until the fireworks finished and as everyone turned to go back into the house.

Matthew: Happy New Year everyone, I would like to make an announcement. Kate has agreed to be my wife and our daughter will be born in a few weeks.

Tom rushed forward and hugged both of them.

Tom: thank you both for making me the happiest man in the world. Come on everyone let’s get this party going.

Everyone came up and congratulated them even Sadie.


Matthew came up behind Kate and wrapped his arms around her.

Matthew: are you okay?
Kate: kinda of tired, been a long day.
Matthew: been a long year.
Kate: it sure has, you take me home.
Matthew turned her around to face him.
Matthew: why of course Mrs King.
Kate: by the way, I think I will keep Kate Tyler but our daughter can have your name!
Matthew: I don’t think so, I’m making a King out of you, it suits you better, Mrs Kate Tyler King.

They said goodbye to Tom and left the party. They held hands on the journey back to Home Farm.
Kate: at last, she has stopped kicking.
Matthew: that’s because she knows her daddy is here to look after her mum and her.

As they walked towards the house, they were totally oblivious to the shadow crouched inside the door.
Matthew opened the door and let Kate walk in before him.

Matthew: home sweet home.

Closing the door behind, he heard a loud bang and fell to the floor. A shadow moved away from the wall and punched Kate in the stomach with the end of the shotgun. Kate fell to the floor and grabbed her stomach, a searing pain ripped through her whole body.

She heard footsteps coming down the stairs,

Man 1: there’s nothing here, other than a couple of credit cards, such a waste man, come on let’s go.

The man behind her took a step across her and aimed a kick at her stomach and shouted.

Man 2: useless Tate bitch.

Kate screamed with pain as she tried to move.

Kate: Matthew where are you? Answer me Please?

Pulling herself along the floor she suddenly felt warm liquid on the floor beside her face. Reaching her hand out she felt a body.

Kate: Matthew! Matthew!

She felt for his phone and eventually found it. Dialling 999.

Kate: hello, ambulance please, my name is Kate Tyler, I live at Home Farm in Emmerdale, please hurry Matthew’s been shot, hurry.

Kate dropped the phone as another searing pain ripped through her body.

Kate: Matthew please wake up, Matthew please answer me? Matthew?

Kate passed out.


Tom got up and checked Noah on returning to the bedroom.

Charity: what’s wrong?
Tom: I don’t know.

All of a sudden they heard the sound of sirens racing past.

Charity: where are you going, Tom?
Tom: something’s wrong?

As Tom quickly got dressed he heard Jimmy and Carl talking on the landing. Tom opened the door.

Carl: they’re heading for Home Farm, Dad.
They rushed downstairs and climbed into Tom’s car.

When they got to Home Farm, they were stopped by the police.

Tom: what’s going on?
Policeman: I’m sorry sir, I can’t tell you that. Now if you don’t mind we need to keep the gate clear.
Tom: this is my daughter in laws house, my son and her were at a party and they returned to her about ½ hour ago.
Policeman: What’s your name?
Tom: Tom King, my son is Matthew and Kate Tyler is his fiancée, please what is going on?
Policeman: if you wait here, Mr King, I will get the detective in charge.

Detective: Mr King, can you step out of the car for a minute.
Tom: what’s going on?
Dectective: Mr King, there seems to have been a break in, was your daughter in law pregnant?
Tom: yes is she okay?
Dectective: she’s gone in the ambulance, I really can’t say anything about her condition yet? Have you a photo of your son or has he any distinguishing birthmarks or tattoos?
Tom: why?
Detective: we have a body in the hall, and Ms Tyler was unconscious when we got here so we haven’t been able to identify the body.
Tom: he has a birthmark under his right arm, it looks like a half moon.
Dectective: please wait here.
Tom: please let me see, if it is him I don’t want anyone pulling at him.
Detective: are you sure you are up to this? What about the two gentleman with you maybe one of them could see?
Tom: no, I’ll do it.

Tom followed the detective to the front door and kept praying that it wouldn’t be Matthew. He stood at the door and didn’t need to go any further.
Tom: oh, sweet Jesus, Matthew.
The detective quickly led him away and tried to comfort him.


Back at Holdgate Farm Charity and Sadie were both pacing up and down the kitchen floor. They heard a car pulling up outside and raced out to see Carl coming towards the house.

Sadie: what’s going on?
Carl: Matthew’s dead, he’s been shot.
Sadie: what? What about Kate?
Carl: she’s been rushed to the hospital, Dad’s gone with Jimmy to the hospital. Matthew’s dead.

The End!

[irishgal]

Okay that's it sorry to send so much together but want it over so can get some comments etc. Again i apologise for any bits that are not believeable again it is my story and my imagination is fairly vivid at times, some of the figures might be high but again that's just me!

Enjoy,

Any comments greatly appreciated

thanks

irishgal