The Price Of Being a King...(Part 3 and on)

[demigod]

Part 3

I wish to dedicate my idea for the Max character to a person very close to me, and anybody else who has a family member, or to the individuals who have suffered or are suffering as a result of burns and burn related injuries and scarring. He is a brave man, who definitely gained more from it, than he lost.

“The Fire destroyed nothing of great importance, I am still the same person I always was, and that is who I shall carry on to be, better even, now I shall become a better person and achieve all that I dream of. Life Continues…”

(Max stared across the pub and locked eyes with his brother Carl. Max was the height and width of a door, he was a very solid looking person, easily he was the biggest of all the King’s. His appearance was finished off, with a metallic blue, rubber mask that covered his entire face, with the exceptions of his mouth, which was visible through an upside down cutaway in a ‘n’ shape, and eyeholes. It was strapped round the back of his head, his head, sported a thick clump of curly wavy brown hair just like Tom’s. He had two jade colour eyes.)

Chastity: What’s with the mask?!

(Max walked over to Carl. Max stopped about 2 feet away from Carl and turned his attentions toward Chastity. Chastity could see by his left eye through the eyehole thick scarring and swollen red skin around his eye. His chin too sported a scar that must of ran down from somewhere else from behind it but with no red swellings. That too though looked thick and imposing.)

Max: It’s a fashion statement.

(The voice was not unlike Jimmy’s but seemed deeper and more sinister, it was neutral sounding no identifiable accent, Chastity was creeped by him. Max turned his head and looked down into Carl’s face once again.)

Carl: We weren’t expecting you till tomorrow.

Max: I decided to leave early, I’d had enough. I got a bit lost, I couldn’t find the house, this place… The fields, they just go on forever, an endless green, with only a few sheep dotted here and there. Id of been here sooner were it not for that.

Carl: Yeah…well, you must be keen to get and see dad and the others.

(Carl, put tried to shoo Max back in the direction of the door, however he didn’t budge. It was clear that Max didn’t move unless he wanted to.)

Max: Don’t we at least have time for a drink?

Carl: No I better get you up to dad. He’ll be pleased to see you.

(Max and Carl left the pub, they headed over to Carl’s MG. Max put his bag in the boot.)

Max: You aren’t pleased to see me.

(Carl was halted in his tracks, the almost brutal honesty that Max was capable of was scary.)

Carl: I am pleased to see you, its just we weren’t expecting you Max, you just arrived and strolled right into the pub of all places.

Max: So?

Carl: So, we want to take things steady.

Max: Take things steady? What am I some kind of dog you’re trying to housetrain or something?!

Carl: No, it’s not like that, we just didn’t want to expose you in such a large way is all, believe it or not, we are all thinking of you here Max.

(Max pointed to the mask.)

Max: I don’t care anymore Carl, after nearly six years I have finally learned to live with this thing, I just wish other people would too.

(Carl and Max climbed into the car and they headed off in the direction of Home Farm…Max stared blankly out the window.)

Max: Where are we going?

Carl: Home Farm.

(Max rubbed his head and turned back to Carl.)

Max: But I thought dad was living in ‘Holdgate’ Farm.

Carl: He is, we’re going to Home Farm, because that’s where you’re staying.

Max: Oh right, fair enough, who am I staying there with?

Carl: Jimmy and Sadie.

(Max threw his head up in the air and then let it fall so he rested his head on his right palm, obviously not keen on that news.)

Max: You can’t be serious, I don’t want to live with that bitch!

Carl: You don’t have much choice.

Max: Apparently not, I doubt Sadie invited me over so which Judas was it then that betrayed me?!

Carl: That’d be Jimmy.

Max: Oh, great! Wait a minute, I thought he did as she said, what, don’t tell me Jimmy is finally getting to wear the trousers?! After all these years, about time old juglugs stood up to that bossy cow.

(Carl grinned, Max was the same old. He promised to behave, but that looked as though it was a paper thin promise.)

****

(Back in the woolpack, the pub was still abuzz from their masked guest. Louise spoke to Diane by the till.)

Louise: I have worked in a lot of pubs in my time and seen some strange looking people, but he by far takes the cake.

Diane: I know, when I heard there was another King coming, I were expecting Oakley sunglasses not a facemask!

(Chastity came over and joined the two landladies.)

Chastity: did you get a load of his left eye and chin? Blimey, I don’t like to say it because he is Carl’s brother and all, but I think there is some serious damage behind that mask.

Diane: Poor lad, I know he came across as not caring two hoots about the fact everyone staring at him, but did you see how he was fidgeting discreetly, he didn’t like that, I tell you it took guts to walk in here like he did.

Louise: Did you see his hands and forearms, they had marks all over them too.

Chastity: Carl were on edge for a little bit, he mentioned somethin about his brother coming, now we know why. Wait’ll Charity sees him…<br>
****

(Carl’s MG pulled up outside Home Farm, Max collected his bag from the boot, and headed toward the front door.)

Max: Aren’t you coming?

Carl: No, it’ll be a nice surprise for Sadie and Jimmy, if you just show up.

(Carl walked over to Max as he had stopped and Carl thought he was just nervous.)

Carl: Neither of us like Sadie yeah? So think of this as a big opportunity to surprise her, unpleasantly at that.

(Carl playfully nudged Max.)

Max: Alright, I’ll see you later then.

(Carl got back in the MG and spun it round in a neat twirl and went down the drive leading to the house. Max waved as he went. He then turned and marched to the door, Max gave the door three sturdy knocks. He could hear Sadie coming. The door opened.)

Sadie: Oh my God!

Max: No, you have me mixed up with someone else…Don’t I get a hug…dear sister.

(Sadie cautiously hugged Max, he too gently hugged her. Jimmy arrived in the hall.)

Jimmy: Max! What are you doing here?

Max: Last I checked I was coming to stay with you. Are you going to volunteer a hug or am I going to have to ask for one?

(Jimmy walked forward and the two brothers hugged each other. Jimmy and Max then walked into the living room with Sadie close behind.)

Jimmy: So how’d you get here?

Max: Carl brought me.

Sadie: Oh I might of guessed, he’d be behind this.

Max: Nice to feel wanted…Carl though is not responsible, I came early I was fed up and decided to arrive now. He dropped me off. I want to see father.

Jimmy: I better phone him and let him know you’re here. Do you want anything by the way?

Max: Yeah, a coffee and a few painkillers.

Jimmy: Is your face hurtin you?

Max: If it was, a few aspirins wouldn’t stop it. No, I just have a headache.

Jimmy: Sadie’ll get em for you.

Max: Ta very much Sade.

(Max then leaned across and gave Sadie a slap on the bum, she walked off looking scorned and generally unhappy with the whole situation.)

****

(Tom and Charity had just settled in on the sofa for the rest of the night with a movie. The two were sharing a bowl of popcorn. The phone rang, Tom muted the volume and then freed the arm he had round Charity in order to answer it.)

Tom: Hello? Yes, Jimmy…What, he never is…Well, in that case you’d better fetch him over here then.

(Tom put the phone down.)

Charity: What were that about?

Tom: Its Max, he’s arrived. A little early I may add.

Charity: Well that’s nice, isn’t it?

Tom: It is, yes.

Charity: Well, if you’re sure…<br>

[demigod]

****

(Today had been an exceptionally busy day at the farm, Andy walked in an collapsed on the sofa, he was tired. Debbie snuck up behind him and placed a hand around the back of his neck, Andy jumped abut a foot in the air. He leapt up to his feet and then spun round to face Debbie, all in one fluid motion.)

Andy: What the heck are you doing?!

Debbie: Calm down, I was only teasing you.

(Andy wiped the sweat off his forehead, he himself even was stunned at how much he had perspired in one fowl swoop.)

Andy: Debbie, that really wasn’t funny…look, my nerves are shot. If you’re going to do stupid stuff like ‘iss then Im going to call it a day. I can’t take it, between Daz running about calling me a ‘dirty get’, and you, sneaking up trying to gimme a heart attack, not to mention your psycho father going about threatening to kill anybody who touches you…! This affair is gonna be the death of me.

Debbie: Is that all I am? An affair!?

Andy: You know what I mean, look, we have to be careful this isn’t exactly something we can sing from the rooftops about is it? We have to be mature about this.

Debbie: I know, I’m sorry, it was stupid. I was only having a laugh.

(And went round to her and gave her a gentle hug.)

Andy: I know, and I just hope, that we don’t get caught, or Cain is gonna kill me.

****

(The door knocked up at Holdgate Farm, Tom King opened it and was greeted by his youngest son, Max walked in and scooped his father up clean off the floor in a loving hug.)

Tom: Steady on Max! These bones aint as young and strong as they used to be!

(Max placed Tom back down onto the floor.)

Max: Yes dad, sorry.

(Charity walked out of the lounge and stood facing Max, the first thing she noticed above all else was the mask he wore perched atop his face. Max sighed.)

Max: You’re staring at my mask aren’t you?

Charity: Yeah, I was wondering about it.

(Max fidgeted on the spot, the directness of Charity’s reply caught the normally reactionary King off balance. He repositioned himself so that he could stand more upright and seem more imposing before her. Tom looked nervous he stared at Max wondering if he was about to explode into fury.)

Max: I had an accident when I was a bit younger, there is a good reason why there is a saying that you shouldn’t play with fire; needless to say I never really recovered. The mask, it’s just here to preserve what dignity and class I have left.

Charity: Well, pleased to meet you Max.

(Max reached out his right hand, for a handshake, Charity stared at it, there were scars even on his hand, they were on the back and there was an ominous looking one on the palm. Charity took his hand for a shake, the massive hand closed round hers, she had no doubt he had a hell of a grip, but lucky for her she didn’t have to feel it.)

Max: Likewise.

Tom: Shall we go and sit down eh?

(Tom, Charity and Max went into the front room, Tom sat with Charity on the sofa while Max decided to occupy an armchair.)

Tom: So, how come you arrived early Max?

Max: I reached the end of my tether dad, I just wanted to come home, I didn’t want to be there anymore. I just wanted to be back where I truly belong, with you, and the rest of the family.

Tom: Its good to have you back.

(Max cast his steely jade eyes to Charity, she winced a little as she caught site of it, especially his left eye which was just about visible through the eyehole.)

Max: I must say, Father’s description of you, it didn’t do you justice.

Charity: I don’t know whether to take that as a compliment or an insult.

Max: A bit of both. Mainly a compliment though.

(Charity smiled, despite her initial reservations she decided she liked Max, she seemed to beam as he said that.)

****

(Cain Dingle walked into the woolpack and marched up to the bar. Chastity walked over to him.)

Chastity: Were you in here earlier?

Cain: No, I were out, had some business to attend to.

Chastity: Blimey you should of got a load of the newest King, now I really do got reason to call them the Addams Family.

Cain: Why?! What’s he like?

(Cain was amused.)

Chastity: Well, e’s pretty big, about the height of a door and about as wide, and he wears a mask covering his entire face.

Cain: You what?! Is he some sorta freak or something?

Chastity: I think his face is messed up which is why he hides it, I think he were burned or something. Anyway, pint is it?

Cain: Yeah, I’ll have to have a look at this new King, at least he’s one that our Charity wont want to seduce.

(Cain took a slurp of his pint, and then burped out loud.)

****

(Tom walked back into the lounge of Holdgate Farm.)

Charity: Has Max gone?

Tom: Yeah, we are all going to be meeting up tomorrow for a drink and Max wants a job, so I guess I’ll have to find something for him.

Charity: So how come you never mentioned, y’know, what he was like?

(Tom sat down and stared blankly at first. Then, he formed a coherent face and focused on the task before him, an explanation.)

Tom: It never seemed important, I know his accident changes everything but not for me, not really, to me he is still the same as he was all those years ago, nothing has changed not from my point of view at any rate. I just want him to be happy and to be loved. Besides, it up to him, if he wants to talk about it then he will, if he doesn’t, then that’s it. Its not my place to discuss him like he was some sort of business deal gone wrong.

Charity: I understand, believe me, I understand.

****

(Sadie went out to meet Jimmy and Max who had just returned.)

Sadie: I see you collected you little brother ok.

Jimmy: Yeah, no problems.

(Max leaned over Jimmy’s shoulder)

Max: I’m going to go to my room now and hit the hay. I am spent.

Jimmy: Here, I’ll show you to your room Max.

Max: G’night Sade, see you in the morning

Sadie: Max! Don’t call me Sade!

(Max laughed quietly as Jimmy and he departed from her presence.)

****

(Tom stood up from where he was sat with Charity.)

Tom: Well love, I am wore out, I’m off. You coming?

Charity: Yeah ok, It has been a long day.

(Tom and Charity turned out the lights and headed for the stairs.)

****

(Sadie and Jimmy sat in the living room of Home Farm, Jimmy was flicking through a few papers which were paper clipped together. Sadie put her arm round him and rubbed the back of his neck, Jimmy went slightly euphoric at the actions till he snapped himself back to reality.)

Jimmy: What are you doing?

Sadie: What does it feel like?

Jimmy: I know what it feels like, but I’m trying to work.

Sadie: Come on its late Jimmy lets go up.

Jimmy: In a minute…<br>
(Sadie tugged his head round and the two started kissing passionately, Jimmy dropped all his papers to the floor. They continued to kiss till Jimmy pulled away.)

Jimmy: No…stop it.

Sadie: You’re refusing me again?

Jimmy: Its not that.

Sadie: I think I can guess.

(Sadie rubbed her forehead with her right hand, she had heard this before.)

Sadie: Children right?

Jimmy: I cant Sadie, I cant, because I just cant see the point no more.

Sadie: Are we still going to sleep in separate beds? What if Max sees us?

(Tempers were beginning to flare and voices raise.)

Jimmy: Yes! Nothings changed because we haven’t sorted it out yet.

(Max was on the other side of the shut door, in his green pyjamas, still sporting his blue facemask, he listened to what they were saying.)

Sadie: As far as I am concerned we have!

Jimmy: Not for me Sadie, NEVER! I wont give up on us having a baby, even if it is the last thing you want!

(Max pulled his head back from the door, he looked about him for a moment, thinking, his mouth was slightly agape, he had been shocked by the outburst, his eyes darted about not looking at anything, it was a side effect of shock and thought. Max realized he should not have eavesdropped, but it was too late, he turned and silently headed back upstairs.)

To be continued…

[demigod]

Any comments?

[irishgal]

The thril of it all.

Will Charity and Max hit if off and run away together! What was the business deal that went wrong? Had Matthew anything to do with it?

More Please

Irishgal

[sarah]

I'm really enjoying this, Demigod, well done. Max's situation gives the story a great twist, what a brilliant idea.

[demigod]

As always, feedback is appreciated!
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Part 4

2 weeks later…

(Matt King was rummaging through a filing cabinet furiously in the office of King and Sons. He slammed the drawer before moving onto the next one.)

Matt: MAX!!!

(Max appeared in the office, he seemed to arrive instantaneously, Max was decked out in a sharp suit not unlike the others, still he sported his facemask as was normal, the only difference between him and his brothers when it came to suits, was Max looked like a Las Vegas legbreaker.)

Max: Yeah.

Matt: What do you mean ‘yeah’? I think you are forgetting who is in charge here.

Max: Like I could ever do that with you reminding me every five minutes, now what is it I was just about to have a slice of cake!

Matt: I cant find the file for the Hopkin job anywhere, you had it last, so where is it?!

(Max walked further into the office, and looked around, he pointed at the desk.)

Max: I put them there, I know how good you are at finding things so I thought Id put them right where you could see them.

Matt: Well they’re not there now are they?

Max: Obviously not, wait, what about Chloe? Maybe she moved them.

Matt: Why would she move them? She’s just a secretary she is not paid to sort our files just type out stuff and answer the phone, she’s only a glorified note taker!

Max: So was Sadie once, she liked to take initiatives if I recall correctly. Look I haven’t got time for this, I said I would meet Andy in the woolpack for a drink.

Matt: You are going nowhere.

Max: Sack me then or tell me I can leave, either way I am going. See you later Matt.

(Matt rolled his eyes and then flopped down into the chair. He now knew full well why Max could be such a thorn in everyone’s side.)

****
(Pearl sat sobbing in the chair in her front room, Len walked downstairs and sat with her. He put his arm around her.)

Len: Im sorry love.

Pearl: I knew this would happen, it always happens! The way people turn on you, people who you thought were your friends. I lied, well is it any wonder! Honesty is the best policy, that’s what my mother used to say, well, what about in this instance, is it the best policy here?

Len: Pearl, I wont lie to you, I don’t have all the answers, all I know is that Frank is still your son no matter what he has done and you have every right to want to stand by him, I understand that. But try and see it from their point of view, they are afraid, they’re afraid that he will re-offend, you cant blame them for that.

(Pearl shook her head and stared at the wall.)

Len: Look, the way I see it is, we either batten them out for it, or we hide in here for the rest of our lives.

Pearl: But Im sick of it Leonard, Im sick of the lies of the hiding and facing lynch mobs everywhere I go. I just want to be able to live my life without people looking at me as though I am something they stepped in!

Len: Later today I am going down the pub I want you to join me.

Pearl: But we’ve been barred.

Len: Maybe, but we wont ever get unbarred if we just sit here.

Pearl: But Im scared Leonard. Lets just forget the stupid pub.

Len: No Pearl, we have to start rebuilding our lives and getting things back on track, I refuse to be treated the same way as that rapist son of yours, I haven’t raped anyone and neither have you. They want to take out their frustrations they will have plenty of chance when Frank actually gets here, till then we make a stand now, or else there will be nothing left of the lives we had.

(Len then just held the sobbing Pearl, from the look on his face, who was he trying to convince really.)

****

(Jack and Diane were sat in the back of the woolpack on the sofa.)

Jack: So, hows that bum of yours then?

(Jack asked playfully, thinking of Victoria’s explanation in the church.)

Diane: Not too bad now, but I’ll be really happy when I get back to the point where I’ll be glad to sit down as oppose to glad to be standing up.

(Diane smiled a huge smile.)

Jack: I’m glad to hear it, y’know Diane, I’m really proud of you. You’ve been so strong and so brave about all this, I guess what I’m trying to say is that I really love you and I hope that we have had our fill of sickness and from here on its just health at our time of life though that’s probably asking for a miracle.

Diane: Speak for yourself! Your warranty may of expired but mine is still valid. You wont trade me in for a newer model would you?

Jack: Not a chance, Im going to keep you longer than I’ve kept the Land Rover.

Diane: You’re comparing me to a Land Rover! Personally I think Im more of a BMW myself, you can be the Land Rover.

(They snuggled up to each other and giggled.)

****

(Max walked into the pub and went over to Andy. Max had changed to a more casual jeans and t-shirt attire, as always still he had one of his trusty blue facemasks attached to his face. Louise walked over to Max.)

Louise: What can I get you Max?

Max: A pint of Diet Cola please.

Louise: Cola? We don’t get many requests for that.

Max: Diet Cola…And I need a clear head, Matt the Merciless is behaving true to form like a complete slave driver, one whiff of booze on my breath and he will drop me in it with dad.

Louise: Coming up!

(Max turned to Andy who had a face as long as a stretch of road.)

Max: So Andy-Pandy, how are things today?

Andy: Y’know, so so.

Max: Not really, ‘so so’ doesn’t really explain much to me. Something’s bothering you and you wont say, hell, you’re the only friend I have in this village.

(Andy chugged his pint down.)

Andy: I’m just thinking about Diane.

Max: Oh right, yeah, but, she is going to make a full recovery! Are you sure?

Andy: Yes! Look what is this an interrogation?

Max: Alright, don’t have a stroke! I was just chatting with you, I’m sorry.

(Max turned to go somewhere else after he received and paid for his coke. Andy caught hold of his arm.)

Andy: Let’s go over there though yeah.

(Max nodded and Andy led Max over to a quiet table in the corner, Andy sat down and began to steel himself, Max sat waiting anxiously, Andy rubbed his head. The farmer was clearly trying to think of the right words to explain. Max was getting impatient.)

Max: Well?!

Andy: Look, you gotta promise me ok, that you wont breathe a word of this to anyone not even your family ok.

(Max looked Andy dead in the eye, it was enough to make Andy shudder.)

Max: You have my word.

Andy: Ok, its me and Debbie, we’re, sleeping together.

(Max leaned back in his seat in stunned silence.)

Andy: We’re trying to keep it quiet, if Cain finds out, he’d kill me. Look, I know what you’re thinking…<br>
Max: No you don’t.

Andy: You wont tell anyone will you?

Max: I gave you my word Andy, that means I will keep quiet about it. But Debbie isn’t even 16 yet! She can’t have relations with you even if it is consensual, its illegal!

(Andy rubbed his forehead, he knew what Max was saying was right.)

Andy: I know. We just sort of happened alright. Look I care about Debbie a lot, ever since Katie left me I’ve been all over the place Debbie was there and she cares about me and I care about her, its just I know that if Cain finds out, he’ll go mental.

Max: You’re scared of Cain?

(Max was almost scoffing.)

Andy: You don’t know what he’s like he’s a psycho, ask anyone round here, e’s as hard as nails.

Max: Well, he looks like a sruffy reject from the Beetles fan-club to me.

(Max laughed.)

Andy: Max this is far from funny! You may not be scared of Cain, I just hope you don’t have to worry about getting your head kicked in by him. But I am worried.

Max: Firstly, Cain doesn’t scare me, second, I gave you my word, I wont betray your confidence Andy, but seriously you should rethink your relationship with Debbie.

(Max got up and took his empty glass to the bar.)

Max: I have to get back to work before Matt the Merciless starts calling, if you’re here later I’ll see you then, and don’t worry about me.

Andy: Thanks.

(Andy stared into the bottom of his glass wondering what the future held for his romance with Debbie.)

****

[demigod]

(Viv was scooting about in the shop rearranging the shelves. Max walked into the shop, and picked up a PlayStation magazine. He walked past Viv who stared up at him, Max stopped and looked at Viv, she instantly carried on with what she was doing, Max just shook his head slightly, and had he not been wearing his mask, Emily who was stood by the till would have doubtless seen his eyebrows shoot up as he smirked, that she could see.)

Max: Just this please…Emily isn’t it?

Emily: That’s right Mr King.

Max: Mr King? Oh please, call me Max.

Emily: That’ll be 3.65 please.

(Max fumbled in his pocket and pulled out a folded but crisp new looking five pound note.)

Emily: Thank-you and, that’s your change.

(Max collected his things.)

Max: Thank-you Emily. Have a nice day. Mrs Hope.

(Max walked out of the shop the door bell chimed as it shut behind him.)

Viv: Don’t you find him creepy?

Emily: Not really Mrs Hope. I think Max is a very nice young man.

Viv: I wonder what he really looks like behind that mask. Do you think he really is as hideous as I am imagining he is?

Emily: Mrs Hope! That’s hardly appropriate to talk about him like that.

Viv: I suppose, still we have bigger things to worry about, like Frank Bernard a.k.a Rapist moving into the village, you know I cannot believe the audacity of that Pearl. She should be ashamed of herself for taking anything to do with him and inflicting him on us, who knows who he might decide to attack! Me, or my Donna, or maybe even you!

(Viv stopped for a second.)

Viv: Well, perhaps not you, but me and Donna! We should of got Max to sign that petition while he was here. Why didn’t you ask him to sign it Emily!?

Emily: I forgot Mrs Hope.

Viv: Nevermind, me an my Scott will be in the pub later, we’ll doubtless see him and the rest of the King Clan in there, if we could get their signatures on the petition the authorities will have no choice but to take us seriously!

Emily: What do you mean?

Viv: Well, its all good that ordinary people like us sign it, but to get the King signatures on it would really do our cause a power of good, they’re millionaires!

(Emily decided it best to not argue the point with Viv.)

****

(Jarvis cautiously approached Len and Pearl’s front door, he went to knock three times agonising over whether or not to carry out his deed. He turned and went to walk away, but Len opened the door.)

Len: Hello Jarvis, how have you been?

(Jarvis stopped and turned to face Len.)

Jarvis: Not too bad. Yourself?

(Len smiled, that remark was not funny really and at the same time it was.)

Len: Do you want to come in? Or are you going to forget our friendship and take a few cheap shots at me and Pearl?

Jarvis: Cheap shots aint me style Len, all the same I think I will come in. Happen its high time you and I had a chat.

(They went inside the cottage and they both sat down facing each other.)

Len: Can I get you anything?

Jarvis: No thanks, I just came to say that I am as against Frank Bernard coming here as the rest of the Villagers. But, I’m still your friend Len. I don’t want us to fight, but I’m beggin ya to reconsider your position. Let this Frank Bernard live in a hostile first so we can see if he really is reformed. People are scared Len, they’re ‘fraid this rapist may strike again and if he does it’ll be too late once the despicable act has been committed.

(Len’s face screwed up into a frown of determination.)

Len: I’m glad you don’t want us to fight, but you seem to think I aint afraid! Im terrified Jarvis, imagine the guilt myself and Pearl are gonna have to live with if he does strike again, Im scared. Pearl’s scared, and the reaction of the others is making me even more scared.

Jarvis: What did yer expect bringing ‘rapist into the village!

Len: I know! He is Pearl’s son, and regardless of what he’s done, she still has to support him. You don’t have kids of your own so I wouldn’t expect you to understand.

Jarvis: Whats that sposed to mean!?

Len: Its supposed to mean that because you aint a father, it means you cant possibly know the workings of a parents mind.

(Jarvis nodded indignantly. Len remained his usual steady self, but he became more determined.)

Len: If I have to do this without my friends so be it. Either way, I intend to support and help Pearl.

Jarvis: We got us petition, we submit that to proper authorities, he wont be coming here, but myself and the others would of much rathered you and Pearl showed him the door!

Len: I thought about that Jarvis, it kept me awake for a long time. But, Im not stupid that petition aint worth paper its printed on. As long as we are prepared to have him there is nothing legal it can do. Its what it symbolises that makes it more effective, its to show me and Pearl exactly what you think of us.

Jarvis: Its not too late to stop this.

Len: Maybe, and maybe not, we passed the point of no return Jarvis, to call it off now would cause Pearl even more heartache and Im not prepared for that. So if that’s it, I think you better leave before we say things we may regret later.

Jarvis: You’re making a mistake Len, you’ve been blinded beyond reason. Well, don’t say I didn’t warn you!

(Jarvis got up and left the cottage slamming the front door behind him, Len breathed a sigh of both relief and regret, he wondered if he had indeed done the right thing.)

****

[demigod]

(Over in the woolpack a meeting was being held, Louise was stood before a crowd of people that included, Rodney, Cain, Lisa, Viv, Dawn, Emily, Scott, Donna, Ashley, Terry, and Eric Pollard.)

Louise: Okay then so far it seems we almost have everybody’s signature. We still need to decide what we are going to do.

Cain: I know what my solution is, kick his head in, the sick freak is only getting what he deserves.

Rodney: I think we are going to need more concrete ideas than that Cain.

Dawn: At least Pearl is now out of a job. Serves her right!

Ashley: Eric! You sacked Pearl! You cant do that, that’s unfair dismissal.

(Eric laughed his smug little laugh.)

Eric: Actually Ashley, she was causing a disturbance in the workplace, and not only that her work recently was quite below par.

(Ashley didn’t look at all convinced.)

Emily: It isn’t fair to take it out on Len and Pearl, its not their fault Frank Bernard is a rapist.

Lisa: Maybe, but she lied to us all, besides, don’t we have a say whether or not a dangerous man like that can come live in our midsts!

Viv: Exactly, heaven only knows what goes through the mind of a sick man like that.

(Max, Matt and Jimmy walked into the pub they looked at the group meeting on the other side. The three of them went up to the bar. Diane walked forward toward them, somewhat gingerly.)

Diane: What can I get you gentlemen?

Matt: Just three pints please Diane.

(Diane proceeded to get the drinks.)

Jimmy: Looks like the lynch mob is in force tonight.

Matt: Cant say I blame them. How would you feel if he got his hands on Sadie?

(Jimmy looked surprised.)

Jimmy: He wouldn’t go near Sadie if he had any sense.

Matt: You’d give him a hiding would ya?

Jimmy: No, I wouldn’t need to, I think Sadie would probably be able to fend him off herself.

Matt: Good point.

Diane: That’ll be 4.25 please Gents.

Matt: Here you are, and one for yourself as well.

Diane: Thanks.

(The three King’s went and sat down. No sooner did they than a hush fell over the pub very reminiscent of the one that had fell when Max made his entrance two weeks ago. Len and Pearl walked in.)

Louise: I thought I made myself clear you’re not welcome here!

Diane: Hold on Louise, our problem is with Frank, not Len and Pearl. They can drink here, and I don’t want no bother.

Len: You wont get none from us don’t worry, all we want is to have a peaceful drink.

Dawn: You got a cheek to even think of showing up here.

(Viv lifted her petition and walked over to Max who was at the bar waiting to order some crisps, she put the petition down before him and jabbed the pen into his hand.)

Viv: You want to sign that petition, every name counts when it comes to protecting our village from a rapist!

(Max stared at the petition and took the lid off the pen, he flipped it over till he found a clear slot to sign his name.)

Pearl: See, this is what I mean, there’s no point Len, lets just go.

(Len stayed steadfast and refused to move. Pearl began to cry, Max just stared at the table and saw how Pearl was crying. He looked back at the petition.)

Viv: Come on sign it so I can get your brothers signatures as well.

Max: No.

(Max stated flatly, he folded the petition and handed it back to Viv. The others in the group began to murmur and hum. Scott walked over to his mother joining Max and Viv.)

Scott: By refusing to sign you do realise you are supporting a rapist don’t you?!

Max: I’m doing no such thing, but your petition, its no good even as toilet paper. Legally you cant stop it, all you are doing is wasting good ink from that pen. Its useless.

Viv: I cant believe this, Id of thought you’d be happy to help protect the village.

Max: I am happy to protect the village, I just think Pearl has suffered enough. That poor woman has probably cried a lake in her lifetime, she has probably spent night after night after night crying herself to sleep. Believe me I know what that feels like because I used to do it myself for the past 5 years. Your nasty little petition is not going to change the fact that he is coming here, and as for asking me to sign it, don’t bother I refuse to make another human being suffer. The scars she carries are burden enough for her, I know what that feels like, hers may not be physical but that does not make them any less torturous.

Scott: Oh please, spare us the symbolism and your pathetic sob story, come on mum, we are obviously wasting our time.

(Max thrust the petition back at Viv and looked daggers at Scott.)

Max: You yourself was had up for Rape.

Scott: The difference is I was innocent!

Max: Zoe was mentally ill at the time, how could she be in a frame of mind to know what she was doing? You probably did rape her for all we know, and due to the illness and your clever manipulations it was all covered up and you got away with it, you also kidnapped Jean and locked yourself in the garage.

(Matt rubbed his head, while Jimmy sat mildly entertained at his youngest brothers developing skirmish)

Max: Not only that but you had Charity fitted up for Murder too, so come on Snow White, any other skeletons in your closet? Oh yes, Charity filled me in on everything.

(Louise walked forward.)

Louise: Look Scott, just leave it yeah.

Scott: No I will not, no listen here you ugly creep! I was innocent, and Charity did murder Chris Tate, she was never found innocent the charges were dropped. So you want to get your facts straight before you go throwing false accusations.

Max: Like I said, Im not signing it, and I refuse to banter words with an intellectually challenged grease monkey.

(Scott moved forward in a motion to hit Max, but Terry and Rodney grabbed hold of the struggling Scott.)

Max: That’s alright fellers. Let him go! You got an itch for me Scotty then you go ahead and scratch it!

(Diane intervened.)

Diane: That’s enough! I wont have violence in my pub! Either you all behave yourselves or you can all get out!

(Everybody seemed to comply. All except for Dawn who went over to where Pearl was.)

Dawn: I hope you are proud of yourself you old bitch, thanks to you we are going to have a rapist living with us and there is precious little we can do about it! Who knows which woman will fall prey to him. I hate you Pearl!

(Dawn took her had and slapped Pearl clean across the face. Pearl was staggered off the chair and fell on the floor. Max, looked genuinely concerned for the woman he now realised he shared a sort of bond with, he went over and gently helped Pearl up.)

Jimmy: Call me crazy but it looks like Max is actually sorry for the old dear.

Pearl: You happy now Dawn, you had your fun!

Dawn: Not quite.

(Dawn drew back to deliver another slap, Pearl braced herself for impact it never came. She opened her eyes to see Dawn’s right forearm firmly clasped in Max’s right hand. Dawn struggled in pain Max’s grip was so strong.)

Dawn: What are you….agh! You’re hurting me!

(Scott and Terry charged across the pub to help.)

Scott: Get offa her!

Terry: Leave her be.

(Max flung Dawn to one side and advanced forward on the advancing duo. He plunged his left Knee into Scott’s abdomen sending him crashing to the ground, he blocked Terry’s punch and then delivered one of his own straight into Terry’s nose, blood splattered everywhere, as Terry struggled to maintain his composure, Max struck again with a vicious left hook that staggered Terry sending him crashing into a nearby table.)

Max: Get up!

(Max grabbed Scott and hauled him back to his feet, Scott retaliated striking up into the big King’s face twice, Max staggered back, and then launched forward with a hard, lightning fast punch that saw Scott crash into the bar and breaking glasses in the process.)

Matt: Help me stop him Jimmy!

Jimmy: right!

(Jimmy and Matt piled onto their youngest brother, their attempts to restrain him proved largely useless, as Max somewhat easily flung them to one side. Other people in the pub piled in trying to halt the path of destruction Max was trying to leave before him.)

Louise: Get him out of here!!

(Try as the men might they couldn’t restrain him he struggled and fought so hard against them all and struck out against anything that moved, Max freed himself but in the process bumped into Cain Dingle, he spilled his pint on himself, Cain had largely enjoyed the commotion. Till now as he warned coldly.)

Cain: You’re dead meat now you ugly freak!

To be continued…

[cass]

Great work DG; loved every minute of it! Can't wait to see what happens next!

[magenta635]

This is the first time I have read and I must say I think it is brilliant, love the way everything is interwined.TEXTTEXTTEXT

[eithne]

It's going really, really well. I'm delighted with the way the stories are always changing and are intertwined. The burns story is really good, and was a nice twist.

There is a guy where I live with bad burns and no hair to the right side of his face, but he doesn't need a mask. It doesn't get him down though, so why should it get me down?

[demigod]

the next part is in production

[nicholacraven]

How long before it's posted DG? I really can't wait

[demigod]

Later tonight, possibly tomorrow, I have had a lot on. I swear I work all the hours God sends these days between 4 kids Heaven knows how many businesses and a farm, I think I need to be cloned!

[billybogsnorkeller]

Demigod said:

Later tonight, possibly tomorrow, I have had a lot on. I swear I work all the hours God sends these days between 4 kids Heaven knows how many businesses and a farm, I think I need to be cloned!

LOL, or dod you mean CLOWNED?

Seriously, and apologies if you have told us elsewhere but what is it you do?

[demigod]

HappyChappy said:

LOL, or dod you mean CLOWNED?

Seriously, and apologies if you have told us elsewhere but what is it you do?

Clowned? I dont really get it, but That is so not funny, especially coming from someone who had a name implying he went snrokelling in toilets. ;D

What do I do...well, I guess I am somewhat like a real life Matt King only far bigger and about 3 times as sexy (Lol remember the sexy thread. I now think I am sexy)

lol seriously, my father is a finger in every pie man. He has bought and sold numerous properties and other items which he then sold on for profits. For example, his first ever business deal was to buy 5 clapped out busses, and he had them done up and restored to former glory, he then was able to quadruple his money and from there it started. After which he moved onto houses, and from there once he had generated enough cash through buying and selling and his job he then ditched it in favour of running a business of his own.

He started with a bakery, then he had a butchers then a corner shop and he progressed from there....fast forward to today.

As a family we have the following businesses which we operate and control both collectively and individually.

Taxi firm (half mine half dads. I am quite a competant mechanic so I usually do basic maintenance on the taxis myself. I also muck in and drive the cab myself on occasion, largely because one is a 54 plate 5 series BMW. As opose to the usual Mondeos and Skodas.)

2 restaurants (Both belonging to mam)

2 pubs (My twin brothers)

a stationary shop (twin bros)

a bakery (twin bros)

a laundrette (my sisters)

a pet shop (my sisters)

3 used car lots (2 belonging to elder bro the other is dads)

about 6 or 7 convenience stores (I think I own one, or maybe two, I cant remember. My eldest brother runs them mainly)

an antiques shop (I bought this recently)

a farm (mine again)

A house clearance firm (fathers)

A building firm (This is dads and mine 50/50, but I usually end up doing 100% of the work)

thats is just in the wales alone, in England the old man bought out an old friends string of Hyper Value type shops.

A caravan site

and a plant that manufactures acessory fitments and fixtures to put on 4x4's to enhance off road ability and modifacations.

And that I think is about it. So essentially, I am just my old mans right hand, as it was me that convinced him to keep going at the business game, he worked to get a fortune for me and my siblings then he wanted to throw the towel in, but I convinced him to keep going and eventually my twin, my elder brother and sister joined in our ventures.

I have this farm here which I just potter about on with about 20 cows about 70 sheep and I have chickens like old Sam. I save a small fortune on eggs! I also got a bull too. I sort of co-ordinate the whole lot, and help it all to function it is really hard to make sure that everything goes well and do my duties here on the farm and find time for the kids, which is why I need a clone.

That is what I do. My hours that I spend working are about, 9am till 8pm on average and at about half 3 I come back to see to the farm and I have to of course make a fuss of the kids, so as far as bed goes, usually, its about 1 am. But I can take various breaks throughout the day which I inevitably use here, or writing a fan fic for here. So its not so bad.

[demigod]

Part 5

(Cain lunged at Max and the two fell onto the floor rolling about, Max was able to get back to his feet and throw Cain off, Cain fell back into one of the benches. Jimmy and Matt piled in along with the others in the pub and separated the two before the fight could really get started. Matt and Jimmy dragged Max outside who was doubtless wore out from his exertions.)

Matt: For Heavens Sake!!! What on earth were you thinking!!!??

Max: I was thinking I wanted to tear that guy a new…<br>
Matt: Never mind!! Jimmy, take our brawling brother home, I better go in and apologise, you know it’s the same thing over and over again, Max starts the fight, and we are always the ones on Damage Control!! We’ll continue this later!!

Jimmy: Get in the car Max!

(Max climbed into the car sombrely and stared at the floor as Jimmy sped off. Matt entered the pub and it fell into hush.)

Matt: Ladies and gentlemen, my brother wishes to express his regrets for the violence that just took place in here, and we will be happy to pay for the damages that he has caused. To those that he, hit or put his hands on, he sends his apologies for hurting you and hopes that you can let it go as just one of them things. Let me stress one thing, tonight’s violence will never happen again.

(Matt turned round and hastily left the pub before someone offered up any comments to him.)

Scott: When I see that guy again I’m going to flatten him!

(Scott rubbed his face where Max had struck him. Cain just sniggered at him.)

Diane: That is enough violence for a lifetime!! There’ll be no more brawls in this pub!

(Len looked about the room ominously, realising that perhaps now was the time to make a discreet withdrawal)

Len: Come on love, I think we better go home.

Pearl: Right.

(Len and Pearl got up to leave and were headed to the door, then as if a jet fighter had just screamed past only 100 feet above their heads, Viv Hope’s voice tore through the quiet atmosphere of the pub)

Viv: Yeah, that’s it. Leave, nobody wants you here anyway, just look at the damage you two have caused!

Len: Ignore it Pearl, let’s just go.

****

(Up at Home Farm the tension was mounting. Matt had been interrogating Max like he were in an interrogation room. Jimmy stood by as did Sadie.)

Matt: I don’t know what to make of this Max, two weeks, that’s how long you have been here, two damn weeks and already you managed to floor Scott Windsor, break Terry’s nose, toss a woman on her backside, smash up about a quarter of the pub, and get into a melee with the village hardman! What’s your next trick??!! You just fought the entire pub over a scumbag, a rapist!

Max: I’d watch what you say Matt. You are not exactly spotless.

(Sadie just rolled her eyes.)

Sadie: We all know about the postman.

(Max turned round and looked at Sadie, his mask lifted slightly and she saw a small part of the left of his face, he quickly pulled it right again.)

Max: I’m not talking about the postman. Am I Matt?

(All the red fell out of Matt’s face, he seemed to lose all his power and strength. Suddenly the fight was just removed from him and he sat down on the couch and rubbed his forehead. He looked worried.)

Jimmy: Matt? Is summit wrong?

Matt: No, I’m just, uh, tired. It’s been a long day, I think I’ll go home and get some sleep. I’ll see you all in the morning.

(Matt made his way past Sadie and Jimmy and out the front door.)

Sadie: What on earth was that all about…Max!!

(Jimmy grabbed her and motioned for her to stop.)

Jimmy: Leave it Sadie, it’s probably nothing. Max trying to be scary or something you know what he’s like he and Matt never see eye to eye, both literally and from the interaction angle as well.

(Max snatched the TV control and switched on the wide screen TV he sat looking very pleased.)

Max: Thank the Lord that’s over with…hey, there’s a good film on; you guys want to watch it?

(Jimmy went and sat down next to his brother.)

Jimmy: Why not, we got nothing better to do. Sadie? You want to join us?

Sadie: Not tonight Jimmy…I think I’ll go and give Colleen a ring, see how she is doing.

(Sadie left the room)

****

(Len and Pearl were sat in their cottage having a cup of tea at the table, both were very thoughtful and reflective on the day that was just about to end.)

Len: Looks like you have at least one other supporter then love.

Pearl: Yeah, I was…quite surprised that young Mr King felt the need to stick up for us.

(Len took a sip of tea and placed the mug down, using it to warm his hands at the same time.)

Len: I think the lad feels sorry for all you have gone through that’s what. From the looks of him, the poor kid has been through enough himself.

Pearl: No doubt, but Leonard, when Frank comes here, if the stick we are taking is bad now. When he gets here, it’ll be a dozen times worse.

Len: We’ll cope, Frank has paid his debt to society and he has been punished for what he has done. They are just scared love.

Pearl: I hope you are right.

(Len took her hand.)

Len: Of course I am!

****

(Next door, Diane and Jack Sugden were getting ready for bed both were fluffing the pillows about to hit the sack. Diane was rubbing her side where the bag was. She was thinking about numerous things and then Jack’s deep, sort of battered voice broke the silence.)

Jack: I heard there was a bit of a ruckus at the pub tonight.

(Diane smiled a little.)

Diane: Yeah, Max King, he really went on a rampage. God, he’s a big boy Jack, you wouldn’t want to make him upset let me tell you.

Jack: You weren’t hurt were you?

Diane: Me? Heck no, I took cover behind the bar and hoped that everybody else in the pub would be able to restrain him.

Jack: Well, if I’d of been there…<br>
Diane: You! Don’t be silly, If the combined efforts of half the pub was barely enough to stop him I seriously doubt a one on one would have made any difference.

Jack: What was it all about?

Diane: That Frank Bernard, Scott shoved the petition under his nose and Max refused to sign it, and then Scott accused him of all sorts, and it just went from there.

Jack: I see, well, goodnight love see you in the morning.

(Jack and Diane kissed and then the lights went out as they slept for morning coming.)

****

(It was morning again in the dales, Matt had been sat in the office of King and Sons for a while, thinking, Max walked in and the two locked eyes, Matt rose to his feet.)

Matt: What the hell were you thinking last night opening your mouth in front of Jimmy and Sadie!

(Max closed the door behind him.)

Max: Look don’t worry, I didn’t tell them anything else, its not exactly something that you are proud of Matt! I’m not likely to tell anybody anything either. So relax, I only said what I did to shut you up because of the grief you were giving me. There, you satisfied!?

Matt: I guess I’ll have to be.

Max: Good. Now, if you don’t mind, I think I will get on with my work.

(Matt breathed a small sigh of relief, and sat back down again studying something on the computer.)

Matt: Oh…We had an e-mail from dad and Charity.

Max: Oh?

(Matt sped read it.)

Matt: Dad says they are having a great time and they will be back soon.

Max: Excellent.

Matt: Good job they weren’t here to witness you in action eh?

(Max glared across the room from behind his usual mask at Matt. Even with a mask you could still make out facial expressions especially ones of anger.)

Max: Drop it Matt!

Matt: Temper, temper. A bit of Sibling rivalry is harmless right?

(Max said nothing he just carried on filling in the form on his desk.)

****

(Outside the postman was out delivering mail, he was whistling the tune to “I’ve been working on the railroad.” He had delivered to all the houses on the opposite side of the street. Then he came to Pearl and Len’s, for them he stuffed a rather official looking envelope through the door, and then walked off.)

Len: Post’s here!

(Len collected the one envelope. He studied it ominously and then placed it on the table.)

Len: It’s for you.

(Pearl opened the letter and had a quick skim through the contents. Her expression changed to one of surprise mainly.)

Pearl: It uh…It says that, Frank Bernard’s release date has been moved back a week, he’ll be coming out tomorrow.

Len: I see.

Pearl: Oh my God Len. If the locals…<br>
Len: They wont, lets just keep it quiet. Let sleeping dogs lie. As for their reactions, we’ll just have to cross that bridge when we get there.

****

[demigod]

(Sadie and Colleen were sitting in the corner of the woolpack having a drink and a right old chat.)

Sadie: So, how are things going with you and Carl?

Colleen: Oh, our marriage is well and truly over Sadie. Him and his women, they ruined my life. I swear to God I wish I had never took anything to do with him.

Sadie: Just you remember that he owes you.

Colleen: Oh don’t worry about that, I intend to get everything I’m entitled to, and then some…Your Jimmy just walked in.

(Sadie turned round, there was Jimmy then just after him was Max.)

Sadie: Oh God, he’s brought Max with him.

(Over at the bar, Jimmy and Max stood for service. Over walked Louise.)

Louise: I should bar you.

Max: Well if that’ll make you feel good about yourself go right ahea…<br>
(Jimmy gave Max an abrupt elbow in the ribs, and made eyes at him in the direction of Louise, in ‘go on then’ motion.)

Max: Actually, what I mean to say is I am very sorry for what happened last night, and I promise I won’t beat up any more of your customers if it can be avoided.

Louise: I guess that’ll have to do then. I still don’t understand though how you can defend Pearl, you do realise what she is doing.

Max: Yeah, and I can’t say having a rapist living among us is an appealing prospect, but, it’s not Pearl’s fault what he did. Besides, lets just say I can relate closely to the emotional torment that poor woman has doubtless been put through. Any problem I have will be with the culprit himself, not Pearl. But, as his mother, she has every right to want him near to her, no matter what he did.

Louise: But we also have a right to live in safety.

Max: True, but since you know about him and what he did, the odds of him reoffending in this village are next to nothing. Either way, Pearl is not deserving of all this wrath.

Louise: Maybe and maybe not, but still, she is bringing a rapist among us.

(Jimmy stared at his watch and shook his head.)

Jimmy: Are you two going to debate rape and its implications, or, can we get a couple of pints now?

Max: Sorry Jimbo, didn’t mean to hold you up. I’ll just grab us a couple of seats next to Collie and the Sadester.

(Max strode across the pub towards them, he noticed Scott, sat at a table with Syd, looking daggers at him, Max gave Scott a friendly wave and smiled and carried on oblivious to Scott’s glares.)

Scott: Look at him, smug git. I’d like to mangle that face even worse.

Syd: I wouldn’t advise it mate, he sent you flying the other night, I don’t think a rematch would be particularly healthy for you.

Scott: I thought we were mates?

Syd: We are, I just don’t want to see you get flattened again.

Scott: Ha ha.

(Scott said, making a face with it as he carried on with his pint. Jimmy came over with the pints and sat with Max.)

Jimmy: Right then, what are we talking about then?

Colleen: It was a private conversation actually.

Max: Cheeky cow!

(Colleen’s mouth dropped wide open at the remark Max made, Jimmy nearly choked on his pint.)

Sadie: Max! What’s gotten into you?

Max: Jimmy was just trying to be friendly. A smart remark like that was unnecessary, that was just bad manners.

Colleen: I tell you, all of Tom’s sons, if you knocked all four of them together you wouldn’t get a decent one.

Jimmy: And what’s wrong with me?

Colleen: What’s right with you, you’re a glorified balding middle aged go-for with huge ears!

Max: And you are a deplorable cow with a very bad personality. I often wonder what Carl ever saw in you, no mystery to me why he had so many different women.

Sadie: Will you all just stop it! We are meant to be family, we shouldn’t be fighting amongst ourselves.

(Colleen just raised an eyebrow.)

Colleen: Tell that to the lone ranger there.

(she said pointing at Max. Who, visibly frowned behind his mask, the red blotching around his left eye contracted into a tighter clump, providing indication of the scowl.)

Max: You started it.

Sadie: I don’t care who started it.

Max: Look, whatever. Here Jimmy, you can have this pint, I haven’t touched it. It hink I’m going to go home and unwind.

Jimmy: Right I’ll see you back there then.

(Max got up and walked off, yet again, on the way out he waved to Scott, who just shook his head in disgust at the enormous King.)

****

(Over in the church, Ashley was in the midst of practicing his sermon. In walked Edna along with Tootsie on the lead.)

Edna: Hello vicar.

Ashley: Edna, to what do I owe this visit?

Edna: I have been doing a little thinking, about Pearl’s son, are we doing the right thing?

Ashley: I don’t follow.

Edna: I mean in the Christian context of forgiveness.

Ashley: Indeed, Edna, whatever Frank did we must try to understand that he has been punished for his crimes and paid his debts to society. I understand full well that all the women in this village are deeply concerned about what he did in the past and that he may do it again.

Edna: Yes. It is a concern.

Ashley: Edna, in life there are a number of inherent risks and troubles. We could be burgled in the middle of the night and maybe we confront the burglar and we die in the attempt. I suppose one apt saying to this predicament is, “better the devil you know than the devil you don’t.” We must ask ourselves, are we better off knowing about what Frank did? Or not?

Edna: Well, of course we are better knowing. What kind of logic is that?

(Ashley raised his finger and pointed up.)

Ashley: Precisely my point. You see, there are many other people who live with people like Frank and even worse, and are completely unaware of the dangers that they could be in. Ignorance is bliss Edna, just because you don’t know about something does not mean it doesn’t exist.

Edna: I can’t help feel somewhat compromised in what we are doing, we are sticking up for Len and Pearl, but we are also indirectly supporting a man who has done something very terrible.

(Ashley nodded his head.)

Ashley: Yes, but, in the Christian context of forgiveness, God forgives those who want forgiveness and salvation from their sins. So we follow that rule, if Frank Bernard genuinely does repent what he did then we, as Christians have to find it in our hearts to forgive. Faith Edna, we have to have faith.

Edna: Yes, thank-you vicar, I think I understand now.

Ashley: Good. I shall see you Sunday.

Edna: Of course.

(Edna left the church with Tootsie on the lead and her stick.)

****

(Max was sitting down in home farm reading through a book, he closed it shut with authority and returned it to the coffee table. He rose to his feet and went to remove his mask, but changed his mind electing to leave it on. He walked over to the phone that was perched on the windowsill he dialled in the number.)

Max: Oh, hey Daz, um, can I talk to Andy please…..Oh, right well, I don’t know if you are interested in doing me a huge favour….Yes, I’ll pay you, and there’s a can of lager in it as well if you do it now….I thought you’d agree, I want you to spread the word, round the village, the pub, even the in the fields to the sheep, tell everybody young old and middle aged, there is a party up at home farm starting in the next hour.

(He paused and listened to Daz.)

Max: Don’t you worry about that…This is one of my parties, and you can be sure, this mansion will be shaking! This Party is going to the MAX!

(Max then put the phone down and smiled.)

To be continued…

[cass]

Great so far DG!

I can't wait to find out what's going to happen and at the party! Fun fun fun by the sound of it... ;D And a few fights too if they get everyone together LOL...

[matthealyisfit]

Fantastic DG! great on how the stories are developing! i wonder what matt has done though?!

[magenta635]

Brilliant once again, can't wait for the next instalment.

[demigod]

Oh...

Stop. you'll give me a big head! ;D

[demigod]

Part 6

(Sadie finished her drink and looked at her watch.)

Sadie: Oh my God, Jimmy look at the time, we have an appointment with the architect any moment.

(Jimmy swigged down one last mouthful of the pint that Max had left for him.)

Jimmy: We better get moving then, see you later Colleen. Come on love, we’ll take your car.

Colleen: Thanks for the chat Sadie.

Sadie: Don’t mention it, what are friends for? Just remember what I told you.

Colleen: I will don’t you worry. Look, I better be off myself, got to pick up the kids from Carl anyway. I’ll give you a ring later perhaps.

(Sadie caught Jimmy up outside climbed into the car and they headed off for their appointment at the architects. Colleen walked in the direction of Carl’s house waving to Sadie as she went. Daz appeared jogging down the road, he headed into the pub, Louise caught sight of him.)

Louise: Uh, Daz you’re not allowed to be here.

Daz: I know that, its just to let you all know that there’s a party at home farm starting in the hour and that I should let you all know, its gonna be over the top he said.

(Daz dashed out of the pub. Robert raised an eyebrow.)

Robert: Now that should be good, do you fancy going?

Katie: I don’t know Rob, you know Max and Andy are very friendly.

Robert: So what? Look, everybody else accepts that we are together its high time Andy did the same, and besides its an open invitation aint it? It’s home farm, free food, free booze, and plenty of people are gonna be there not just Andy.

Katie: Alright then, but I don’t want to stay too long.

****

(Daz jogged into the café. Donna walked up to serve him.)

Donna: What can I get you Daz?

Daz: Uh nothing…I just come to say that there is going to be a party at home farm starting in the next hour and it is gonna be wild.

(Donna stopped him just as he was about to leave.)

Donna: Who’s organising it?

Daz: Max is.

(Donna stood staring.)

Daz: You know, big guy, wears a mask covering his face?!

Donna: I know who he is idiot, I just didn’t see him as the party type that’s all.

Daz: Well, whatever. I’ll see you up there then.

(Daz walked out of the café just as Viv was walking in.)

Viv: What a day, I have just been at a community meeting over that Frank rapist Bernard, and that Ashley, ooooh!! He plays on my nerves, I mean imagine that putting a villain like that before his own parishioners. He calls himself a defender of the faith, huh! Well I’ve lost all my faith that’s for sure!

Donna: Mum! Will you stop going on about Frank Bernard just for five minutes.

Viv: Why? You have something even more important to think about than a convicted rapist coming to live with us I suppose.

Donna: Uh, yeah, there’ gonna be a party up at home farm, I wondered if you could cover the rest of my shift in a little bit.

Viv: Oh Donna!

Donna: Please mum. I never get out these days.

Viv: Right, go on then, but you better not come back in a state!

Donna: Oh I wont, thanks mum!

****

(Daz went up to the garage, Scott was outside with Syd chatting as he worked on the car. Scott observed the approach of Andy’s younger brother.)

Scott: What do you want? No cars worth joyriding in today.

Daz: Ha ha, actually I were just coming to tell yer there’s a party up at home farm in the hour.

Scott: Home Farm? Are you sure?

Daz: Yeah, Max told me himself. See you up there!

(Daz took off. From their standpoint Scott saw Daz talking to Danny about the party, Scott shook his head.)

Scott: I cant believe this, he’s organising a party in Zoe’s house? That just aint on.

Syd: Well I’m up for a bit of action. Been ages since I went to a good do.

Scott: I’m going alright, if only to keep an eye on things. You know, I cant believe the audacity of those King’s. March in here and think they own the place.

****

(Up at home farm the doorbell rang, Max opened the door outside was a load of people.)

Man: Mr Max King?

Max: Yeah.

Man: Hotten Premier Party Service, we have your drinks, food and music needs all in one great package. My name is Phil Westers. I have the documentation here so if you could just sign there and there.

(Max took the clipboard and the pen and signed where he had been instructed.)

Phil: Where do you want my team to set up?

Max: Oh, wherever, the grub can go in the kitchen and the music and drinks can be spread between the dining room and the lounge. I have cleared aside the furniture to make room for it so you shouldn’t have no bother with space.

(The group marched in with all their gear as Max stood looking happy with his latest adventure.)

****

(Steph sneakily opened the door to Alan’s room and tip toed in. She smiled at her father and rubbed her bony hand over his forehead, even though Alan was doped up, her cold hands on his head was enough to cause him to pull away a little in bed.)

Steph: You know, there is a big do up at home farm. I had thought about going, but as it stands I think I can be of more use here. I got to look after ya. But ya see dad, you don’t make it easy for me.

(She scowled and moved her hand away and lightly gripped Alan round the neck.)

Steph: You don’t make it easy!

(Steph released her grip.)

Steph: Still, we got plenty of time to get to know each other and to make a new life with each other. Now that that gold digging trollop fat Shelly Williams is out of the picture. It’s just you and me now aint it? And that is the way it should of always been. You just keep co-operating with me and everything will be just fine.

(Steph gave Alan a light peck on the forehead and left the room turning off the light as Alan lay on totally oblivious to his daughters scheming ways)

****

(Scott was with Dawn he had put on some nice clothes for the party. He looked sharp in his soiree, but the presence of stubble and hair that was not really tidy sort of spoiled his look.)

Scott: You coming to this do at Home Farm?

Dawn: You’re kidding right? After flung on my backside by that lunatic you think I want to be in the same room as him? I cant believe you are going too, after what he did to you in the pub last night. But if you want to go, I don’t mind looking after Jean.

Scott: Well, I want to show that he didn’t get to me, and second, I want to keep an eye on what he is doing there while Zoe is away. It’s her house, but I still cant get my head around the fact that she let Sadie house sit!?

Dawn: I’m sure Zoe knew what she was doing.

Scott: I doubt it, look I am worried, that Max cant be trusted, he’s a loose cannon that could go off at any time. I’ll see you later.

(Scott, did up the shirt properly and walked out the house.)

****

[demigod]

(The party was just getting started at Home Farm, the front of the house was littered with cars. Andy arrived in his Land Rover pick up and parked next but one to Rob’s car. Andy along with Daz and Debbie got out of the truck and walked up to the front door.)

Andy: Remember we want to keep a low profile right.

Debbie: I know. We can keep an even lower one if we find a nice quiet corner.

Daz: Do you mind? Some us are planning on having a good time.

Andy: Shut up!

(Andy rang the doorbell, the noise of the music from behind the door was considerable once Max opened the door the music came over at a whole new volume.)

Max: Glad you guys could make it…<br>
(Before Max could finish, Daz cut in.)

Daz: Hey, what about our arrangement?

Max: You two go in on, food is in the kitchen, booze is in the lounge and dining rooms.

(Daz held out two hands.)

Max: Quite the mercenary aren’t you? Here!

(Max put 50 pounds in one hand and he grabbed a can of lager off the end table which had a phone on it. He handed it to Daz.)

Max: There you go. Thanks for the help.

(Max walked off into the lounge looking about, everybody was so stylishly dressed and enjoying themselves the ages ranged from as young a 12 right up to about 28. He himself had scrubbed up well and instead of an ordinary blue rubber mask, he had opted for a different one that was a metallic silver. Danny approached him.)

Danny: Here, how do you get so many people in so short a space of time?

Max: I used Daz to spread the word, and also a friend of a friend helped to distribute the news through Hotten.

Danny: Oh nice one!

(Andy and Debbie had moved into the kitchen and were getting some food from the table, as Andy turned he bumped into Rob, causing Robert to partially spill his drink.)

Robert: Watch it hey?!

Andy: Sorry, it were an accident.

Robert: Everybody is sick of you and your accidents Andy. Your whole life is just one big accident.

(Sensing the tension, Katie stepped forward and got between Andy and Robert.)

Katie: Just back off okay Rob, we don’t want trouble right?

Andy: Its alright Katie let him be. Look, you can say what you like Rob, it doesn’t matter. You won, you got Jack all to yourself, drove me out of the family, you stole my wife away from me. You won. There is nothing left of mine that you can take. So if that’s all I’d like to get that plate if you don’t mind.

Katie: Come on Rob, you had too much to drink just calm down ok.

(Daz shook his head and made a face.)

Daz: This is all your fault everything that happened to Andy and yours, your nothing but a common tart and you are a male tart.

(Katie was prepared to take Daz’s comments, but Rob was not, he hit Daz in the side of the head with a closed fist. Daz stumbled into the kitchen unit where the coffee percolator was. Andy just reacted, he threw out a punch at Rob and before they knew it they were brawling in the kitchen. Everybody crowded round and watched seemingly little was being done to separate the two.)

Donna: Ere, wos going on in the kitchen all that shouting?

(The gang in the lounge all tramped into the Kitchen with Max bringing up the rear he waded through the crowd and saw Rob trying to mount himself on top of Andy to punch down in his face. Max grabbed hold of Rob by the collar and lifted Rob clean off of Andy. Rob struggled vainly against the vice like grip he was in)

Robert: Let me go!!!

(Robert drew back his elbow and got Max straight below the belt, the youngest King for a moment was stunned into release as Rob got away and then took another swing at Andy which was blocked and Andy retaliated with a wallop of his own. Rob twirled round and as he did was caught by Max a second time, Max’s hands clamped round Rob’s neck and Max pinned him against the wall.)

Max: I am going to offer you two choices. Choice number one, leave through the door of your own will, or, choice number two, leave through the window against your will…Which is it gonna be?

Robert: Not to worry, I was going anyway, Im not too impressed with some people on the guest list.

(Max released Robert and he stormed off.)

Katie: I’m sorry Max it was just…<br>
Max: Just leave Katie. It was a mistake to invite you and him anyway. A mistake I wont repeat in future.

(Katie almost reluctantly followed in Rob’s path. Max made a signal to the DJ and the music started up again.)

****

(Jimmy and Sadie walked into the woolpack looking beat.)

Jimmy: See look at the time, by the time we got through all them designs and then you wanted to go to the shopping centre and then have dinner see how late it is.

Sadie: Oh stop it, we had a great time didn’t we? It’s been too long as well.

Jimmy: I still haven’t forgotten Sadie. The issue of our family has not been abandoned, simply postponed, but we are going to sort it all out one way or another.

Sadie: Oh Jimmy…Don’t be like that, not after we had such a good day.

(Louise approached them.)

Louise: What can I get you?

Jimmy: Just our usual please, and have one yourself while you’re at it.

(Louise began pulling the pint.)

Louise: Party too much for you?

Jimmy: Eh? What party?

Louise: Oh it was all round the village that there was going to be a party of some kind up at home farm.

Jimmy: Oh really. I think you better forget them drinks Louise. From the sounds of things we have a serious problem.

Louise: But…<br>
(Terry took a stool at the bar. Jimmy threw a tenner at Louise and then handed the pint to Terry.)

Jimmy: Here you are, enjoy! Sadie…Come on, we have to get home.

Sadie: But we just got here!

Jimmy: Max is having one of his parties! Come on!

(Sadie’s face was a picture. She immediately jumped to her feet and chased after Jimmy, out of the pub and back to the car.)

Sadie: I swear this time he has gone too far!

Jimmy: I thought you enjoyed his parties!

Sadie: I do, when they are not located in our home!

(Jimmy and Sadie got into her TVR and they took off with such ferocity that the wheels were spinning, then the TVR found grip and took off turning to go to home farm.)

****

(Back at Home Farm everything was going nicely. The party was in full swing, Scott stood looking across the room at Max who was laughing and Joking with Danny and Donna. Scott decided to join them.)

Scott: This has been a great party.

Max: Glad you liked it.

(Max innocently responded not picking up the sarcasm disguised behind Scott’s fake sincerity.)

Scott: Yeah, but I wonder would Zoe enjoy it. You can rest assured when she gets out of hospital I am going to tell her everything that has happened here today and how you and your family have abused her trust.

Donna: Oh come on Scott lighten up.

Scott: And who are half these people anyway, complete strangers here having a good time at Zoe’s expense!

Max: Look Scott, it is not my fault that it kicked off between Rob and Andy, how was I supposed to know that this was going to happen. All this was done to get people together so we could all have some fun for one night to enjoy ourselves. Nothing good ever happens here I just wanted to provide a bit of fun and entertainment!

Scott: You provided that alright. But the entertainment wont be nearly as entertaining when Zoe finds out about it!

Danny: Oh come on Scott.

(Scott cut Danny a glare.)

Scott: I didn’t ask for your opinion. As for you I am not finished with you yet, I still owe you for what you did to me in the pub the other night.

(Max put his drink down on the table and loosened his tie. Syd came across the room and held Scott by the arm.)

Syd: Leave it ok. This isn’t the time for this, think of Zoe, she wouldn’t like her house getting trashed with you being violent trying to defend it.

Scott: Good point. Besides, you just aint worth it.

(Max rolled his eyes behind his mask and sighed, not one of relief but of exasperation. He was getting sick of Scott Windsor faster than he could of imagined. Scott glugged back a glass of whiskey and still stared over at Max.)

Donna: Look don’t worry about my brother, he’s just mad cause you floored him, he’ll get over it, this party is amazing though.

Max: Thanks, I just wanted to hav…<br>
(Max was stopped by the music suddenly going off.)

Max: You know, that Scott is a real party poop…<br>
(Max stopped in the doorway and observed Jimmy stood by the DJ’s stand. Sadie was by the main door, both looked very upset.)

Jimmy: Alright everybody, this party is over! Everybody out come on, out!

(Max bowed his head and turned and looked at Sadie who just hissed at him…)

Sadie: I think you have some serious explaining to do, don’t you Maxwell!?

(Max swallowed hard and watched as all his party guests filed out the door past the iron form of Sadie King.)

****

[demigod]

(Len and Pearl were sat on the sofa together just watching a show on TV, nothing of interest just something to pass the time really.)

Len: So, it looks like I’ll be meeting this Frank Bernard tomorrow then.

Pearl: Yeah. You will.

Len: Don’t tell me, you’re dreading it?

Pearl: Just a little, I just cant help but be unnerved by the fact that the reaction of the village at a convicted rapist moving in cant be a positive one.

Len: Relax Pearl, they got no right to tell us who we can and cant have living with us. It’s tough and we are just going to have to weather the storm, now stop worrying about it and lets watch the show huh?

(Len put his arm round Pearl and pulled her in, squeezing her tightly to assure her he was there.)

****

(The mess at home farm was so bad, frankly, a description for it defies the imagination. But in the thick of the mess was Max and Jimmy each with a black bin bag picking up the rubbish. Sadie stood by in a supervisory role.)

Sadie: You are just unbelievable Max, you continually abuse our trust and faith in you. Me and Jimmy agreed to put you up and this is how you repay us? This isn’t even our house its on loan to us by Zoe, we, are supposed to be looking after it! It is going to take days on end to get this place back to the way it was. Oh and be sure of one thing, you wont be seeing bed tonight until I am completely satisfied that you have cleaned up enough rubbish lying about.

(Max carried on oblivious collecting litter and throwing it into the bag.)

Sadie: Look around though, this place is a disaster, it looks like a bomb has gone off inside it! Why would you do such a thing?! Well let me tell you this, the minute your father gets back off his trip I am going to be having words with him about all your behaviour from the day you got here. Its unacceptable, you are behaving worse than one of those inbred Dingle’s! Frankly, you disgust me with your devil may care attitude to everything!!

(Max tied the bin bag and chucked it over to where the other full bin bags were. He straightened up and looked over at Sadie.)

Max: Give it a rest Sadie! If you would stop screaming at me for two minutes I may be able to hear myself think! Look I am sorry about the mess, but I was just trying to gain a bit of popularity and have some fun at the same time, is that such a crime?

Sadie: It is when your fun jeopardises mine and Jimmy’s home, you didn’t even ask permission you just went ahead and done it! That’s the trouble Max, you cant do what you want all the time.

(Jimmy went over to his wife’s side.)

Jimmy: Sadie love, this isn’t helping any of us, why don’t you calm down and give us a hand eh?

Sadie: Clean up his mess you must be joking.

Max: Whats the matter Sadie? Cleaning up beneath you? I thought for sure a place like this would have a butler as part of the fixtures and fittings.

Sadie: Typical, a clever remark for everything, just what I have grown to expect from you. Look around though, the mess is everywhere!

Max: As you can see I am cleaning it up!

(Sadie just nodded and then pointed all over the room indicating the air.)

Sadie: Yes, and all this smoke here, its so thick you could cut it with a knife.

(Sadie coughed a little to emphasise her point. Max laughed a little.)

Max: Oh dear, poor thing. You seem to forget Sadie that your mother smoked like a chimney as you put it, and you yourself used to smoke, even the odd cuban cigar as I recall. So Im sure you can live with it for another few minutes.

Sadie: I never used to smoke regularly, only on special occasions and every other weekend, and I haven’t smoked in over 10 years thank-you, so when you are done there you can open the windows and let some fresh air in!

Max: Yes, your excellency!

(Max also did a bow to put his point over as Sadie stormed off out the room.)

Jimmy: Max, I swear, I know we get on alright and we like each other, but this is really putting our relationship to the test, you are going to have to stop this. Why are you doing it?

Max: Oh Jimmy, please, don’t start on me. I just wanted to have some fun.

Jimmy: Yeah, we’ll all get fun if Sadie opens her mouth to dad!

Max: You let her walk all over you; no wonder Colleen said what she did about you in the pub.

(Max carried on with his cleaning efforts as Jimmy stood mulling things over in his mind, Max’s words had cut him to the quick.)

****

(All was tranquil at the bus stop, except for the bus that came by and dropped off a man at the bus stop. He got off the bus and stared down the street. Frank Bernard had just arrived in Emmerdale.)

To be continued…

[cass]

Getting better DG!

The party certainly was a hit! (Parden the pun! ;D)

Can't wait to here how they're going to react to FB coming!

[magenta635]

With the risk of repeating myself this is fab, I can't wait for more.

[irishgal]

keep it coming!

wonder what Matt did!

irishgal

[eithne]

It's really good, looking forward to more.

[demigod]

Note: Because of my long trip on the coach to London these offerings are a bit longer than usual.

Part 7

(Frank collected his bag and walked down the street to Len and Pearl’s house, he looked around the quaint little village taking in its rural beauty seeing what a difference it was to prison. He knocked the door, and waited, it opened. Frank and Len were at last standing face to face.)

Len: Who are you?

Frank: Pearl’s son, Frank Bernard.

(Frank shook Len’s hand. Pearl came and joined Len at the door. She looked stunned.)

Pearl: Frank?!

Frank: Hello mum.

Pearl: Oh, come inside, come inside!

(Frank was guided into the house by Len and Pearl. He put his bag down. Then opened his arms for a hug, Pearl gave him one, but not the sort of hug he really wanted. But it was good enough.)

Pearl: We thought you weren’t arriving till tomorrow.

Frank: There must have been a mix up of some kind, I was coming out today.

(Pearl looked at him puzzled.)

Pearl: Then where have you been all day?

Frank: I was in Hotten picking up some things before I came here that’s all, no need to look so worried.

Len: Well, welcome to Emmerdale then Frank.

(Frank smiled weakly, and looked at his mother longing deep down for the old days before any of this happened.)

****

(Back at home farm, Sadie was sat in the front room looking thoughtfully ahead, it had been a trying day for her, very trying. She got up and marched into the dining room. Max and Jimmy had made headway the air in the room had cleared and most of the rubbish was lifted from off the floor. The furniture had also been replaced to its original locations.)

Sadie: I think the three of us need to have a serious talk about all the events that have transpired here today.

Max: More like, you are going to lecture, and we are going to listen, yes?

Jimmy: Max!

(Sadie pulled up a seat in front of Max, Jimmy and Max sat down. Max placed himself in the chair, which creaked as the wood came to terms with supporting his weight.)

Sadie: I think we need some answers, I think the most obvious one to ask is why? Why did you have this party and don’t give me some nonsense answer about having fun, you did this to get at us didn’t you? Because you were sore that Tom and Charity didn’t take you with them on their break.

(Max just shook his head.)

Max: None of you get it. Do you? After 6 years. You still don’t get it.

Jimmy: Max what in blazes are you goin on about?

(Max sighed, and forlornly pointed to his mask, which was concealing his entire face save for his mouth visible though an upside down ‘U’, it was his ‘special occasion mask’ which was rubber like his regular blue ones, but instead of a royal blue it was a shiny silver.)

Sadie: What has that go to do with having an earth shaking party?

Max: Everything!! I want to be normal, I want my life back! I was nearly incinerated 6 years ago, my face, the doctors said, was too far gone to ever be restored beyond what it already is and frankly the way it is now is not good enough for me. You think I want to wear a mask? You think I enjoy it?

Jimmy: No Max, nobody is saying that.

Max: I don’t want to be centre of attention because of the mask I want to be centre of attention, in spite of the mask. Before this, thing, was perpetually strapped to my head, I was a popular guy, lots of friends, some of which were girls, now, I am stuck forever to live my life like a freaking monk, because no woman in her right mind is ever going to want a guy as hideous as me is she?!

(Max boomed and raged as the full force of his feelings pressed out against the walls of the room, Max had a power about him, a force that seemed to push out and it was irresistible in as much as you couldn’t seem to stand against it.)

Max: The party, was a way for me to numb the pain, to forget who I really was just for a few short hours, to be able to sample a small part of the life I used to have before I was changed forever. That is why, escapism, I want to escape the confines of my life, I cant live like it, its hard!! Nobody, but nobody can realise how hard! If they could, then they would finally feel a small piece of the pain I have to endure every day!

(Max left Jimmy and Sadie speechless, Sadie was stunned into silence. The outburst was the first of its kind, never before had Max talked with such passion about the torment he seemed to feel)

Jimmy: Max, we all love you. We want what’s best for you, but we cant do that if you keep fighting us.

(Max turned his back to Sadie and Jimmy so they couldn’t see his face, Max removed the mask and reached behind him placing it on the table.)

Max: Can I have a handkerchief please Jimmy?

(Jimmy, handed Max a handkerchief who proceeded to wipe his face and sniff, the mighty King was crying. One part of the hanky had a bit of blood on it, which had obviously emanated from his left eye as he had cried. Max reached behind it and placed it on the table, he fumbled for the mask and caught hold of it, he was reaching up to return it to his face, but Jimmy stopped him and walked round in front of Max. Sadie watched on from behind the back of Max, as do we all. Jimmy looked up into his face.)

Jimmy: Whatever may have happened to you, I am not afraid to look you in the eyes and tell you that no matter how deformed you may be, and no matter what has happened to you, it changes nothing, I wont ever turn my back on you Max, and neither will dad or any of the rest of us, we are here to support you to the end, and that is a promise.

(Jimmy hugged Max, and Max then hugged him back.)

Max: Oh God. I’m sorry Jimmy, I’m so very sorry!

(They pulled apart. And Max strapped the mask back on, he turned round to face Sadie and all of us who watched on.)

Max: I’m sorry Sadie, I am so very sorry for the bother I caused you, and for being so rude. So I am going to leave for tonight.

(Sadie stood up.)

Sadie: What do you mean leave? Where will you go?

Max: I have to go, I need space alone, I gotta think. My mind I have to clear it, I need to be able to reflect on everything and to work stuff out, it’s the only way I can ever fit in here.

(Max walked past them both out the room.)

****

(The pub was a busy scene as usual, at either end of the bar were two couples, Louise and Terry and the other end Chastity and Carl. Both were discussing various things in the busy pub, where at the moment everybody was drinking and not needing drinks.)

Louise: You know Terry, I was thinking, you really did well today. You are really starting to get into a rhythm, I cant seem to get over how quick you are getting back to form.

Terry: Yeah, its pretty good. To tell you the truth, I’m pretty surprised meself. I didn’t think I had it in me.

Louise: As long as you don’t overdo it. Now that you are back on the road to recovery the last thing we want is for you to strain yourself. By the way, how’s your nose?

(Terry rubbed his nose a little.)

Terry: Its been better. Me not being a stranger to the kind of wallops that Max King delivered I think I’ll be ok.

Louise: I cant get over what Dawn did though. She slapped Pearl hard.

Terry: Yeah, but when I saw Max with his hands on Dawn it were like, I had to defend her you know. I weren’t expecting, you know…<br>
Louise: Such a hard punch on the nose?

Terry: Well, theres that, but the way I felt when I saw what he were doing to Dawn. He didn’t have to hurt her you know.

(Louise, looked on at Terry in the painful realisation that somewhere deep down he still harboured feelings towards his estranged wife. Chastity and Carl had been leaning over the bar for the past half hour chatting and flirting like teenagers.)

Chastity: So what about this posh do your family’s havin then?

Carl: Oh that, that’s not till dad and Charity get back. I tell you this award ceremony is going to be night of the toffs. Not that it matters. I wont be going.

Chastity: And why not?! You got as much right to be there as the others do. What about Max, is he going?

Carl: That’s a good point, I don’t know. I’d have to check.

Chastity: Of course Chloe is going though isn’t she?

Carl: It were Jimmy’s idea Chas. He wants to take her.

(Chas raised an eyebrow, wondering just how much truth was in that statement.)

Chastity: You reckon? Maybe she schemed her way into going!

(Carl stared at her confused as to what she meant for a moment, he lowered his eyebrows into a semi-frown.)

Carl: What do you mean by that?

Chastity: Oh, nothing love, sour grapes is all. I just wish I could be there and have a good time.

Carl: Well, I may not even go, we’ll just have to see what transpires. I can tell you one thing, my old man isn’t going to be happy when he hears about my impending divorce.

****