chapter 57

Mandy and Brian walked back to the busy club just as another slow dance was coming up. Advertising space, by Robbie Williams. Mandy stopped and Brian looked at her.
“I love this song. Dance with me?” she asked.
Brian smiled and grabbed her hand, “Come on then!”
They got to the dance floor and Brian instantly wrapped his strong arms around her waist. Mandy looked up at his smiling face and wrapped her arms around his neck. Then she rested her head against his chest and he rested his head on top of her head as they swayed to the music. He sang along softly to the song as Mandy closed her eyes and felt his heart beating. She let out a soft sigh and listened to his voice. She loved listening to him sing. She often wondered why he did not go professional with that voice. HE sounded amazing. She smiled contentedly and then lifted her head. She met his gaze and smiled at him.
“Do you have any idea how good your voice is?” she smiled.
Brian looked at her and stopped singing, “Do you have any idea how much I want to kiss you right now?”
“Brian!” she sighed, looking away.
“Don’t worry. We’re just friends. I know! I won’t kiss you. But damn, it’s so hard!” he grinned.
Mandy looked up at him with her most serious face and stood on her tiptoes. She pushed his head down slightly and placed her lips on his, kissing him softly. Her tongue glided against his lips and he just pulled away.
“Mandz, you cannot do this to me darling. It’s torture!” he sighed.
Mandy frowned and leaned her forehead against his chest.
“I just don’t want you to feel uncomfortable in the morning, that’s all!” he frowned.
Mandy shook her head, “I won’t. We both know where we stand, Brian. You know how I feel and I know how you feel!”
“And kissing me is going to make me believe you actually want more!” he moaned.
Mandy shook her head, “I am sorry Bri. I just really wanted to kiss you then. I didn’t mean any harm by it!” she frowned.
Brian smiled, “I know you didn’t!”
They stayed quiet for a while and continued dancing, when Brian pulled back slightly. This made Mandy look up at his serious face on display. Mandy looked at him blankly.
“Kiss me!” he growled.
“What?” she gasped.
“Kiss me Mandy!” he repeated.
“But what about…” she started.
“Forget about what I have just said. I don’t care. I just need to feel your lips against mine again!” he insisted. His eyes were dark with desire.
“Brian, I don’t want to lead you on. I don’t want to give you false hope. I don’t want…” she sighed.
Brian shook his head, “I know exactly where I stand, darling. Please, please just kiss me before I burst with desire!”
Hesitantly, Mandy put her hands on his cheeks and raised her head up slightly. She brushed her lips against his and let her tongue glide over his hungry lips. Brian immediately opened his mouth and took possession of hers. He let his tongue play with hers as he rubbed his hands down her back, finally resting on her bum. His breathing was heavy and got heavier when Mandy deepened the kiss. She placed her hand behind his neck and pulled her towards him even more. Her other hand glided up and down his chest as Brian slightly squeezed her bum. They then gradually slowed things down until they managed to pull away.
“Wow!” he whispered.
“I know!” she whispered back.
“Well. Looks like a really cold shower for me tonight!” he grinned, still with his hands on her bum.
Mandy smiled, “Speaking of which, can we go back home now?”
Brian smiled, “We can go back whenever we want babe!”
Mandy looked at Nicky on the other side of the room as they walked to the stair case to leave the club. He gave her a small smile and a slight wave. Mandy nodded her head, acknowledgingly and walked out with Brian.
“Going home already?” smiled Mark.
“Thought you were off duty!” answered Brian.
“I had to stay. The other guy got ill!” he moaned, rolling his eyes.
“Well, we are going home now. It has been a really long night!” smiled Brian.
Mark smiled and looked at Mandy. She smiled at him and kissed his cheek, “Thanks for talking some sense into me, Mark. I really appreciate it!” she whispered into his ear as she kissed him.
“NO problem!” he grinned, “Any time!”
“See you Monday!” smiled Brian as they walked away.
Mark smiled and watched them leave when his phone rang. Seeing Fina’s name flashing on the phone, he started panicking. Especially when he saw it was 2am.
“What’s wrong?” he answered panic stricken.
“Your daughter wants to say something!” answered Fina, sounding fed up.
“Which one?” he asked. He closed his eyes and chuckled to himself when he realised his youngest daughter was only 3 weeks old and incapable of speaking, “Sorry. Stupid question, I know. It’s been a long night. What is she still doing up?”
“HI daddy!” she screamed down the phone.
“What are you doing up at this time of night, young lady?” he scolded.
“I love you daddy!” she babbled.
Mark smiled. This girl could get away with murder, “I love you too baby. But why aren’t you in bed? Are you being naughty for mummy?”
“My bed got wet!” she answered.
“What do you mean, your bed got wet?” laughed Mark, “Why?”
“Because…Because I did a pee and it got wet!” she shrugged matter of factly.
Mark laughed loudly, “What about your nappy?”
“Took it off!” she sang.
“And why did you take it off?” he asked.
“Coz Tammy’s big girl now!” she answered innocently.
Mark sniggered to himself, “Sometimes big girls have to wear nappies too honey!”
“Mummy doesn’t!” she replied.
“You’re right. Mummy doesn’t! But you are such a special little girl that you get to wear them!” he grinned.
“I am not a little girl. I am a big girl!” she screamed.
Mark held the phone away from his ear slightly and stifled a laugh.
“OH, sorry. I mean, you are such a special sweet girl that you get to wear them. Coz only special girls wear nappies!” he coaxed her.
“Nappies are for babies!” she insisted.
“No they are for special girls too!” he laughed.
“So is Emma special? She wears nappies!” she huffed.
“Nah Emma wears them coz she is a baby. Tammy wears them at night only because she is special!” smiled Mark, trying his best.
“NO!” she shouted.
“NO?” questioned Mark.
“No. no, no. No nappies for Tammy!” she shouted, unconvinced.
“Oh dear. You know what? I have Tinkerbell here beside me and she has not got a happy look on her face!” he announced.
Tammy remained quiet. Mark smiled when he could hear her breathing down the phone.
“You want to talk to Tinkerbell?” he asked.
“Yes!” she answered softly.
Mark put on his squeakiest voice, “Hello Tamara! This is Tinkerbell!”
Tammy remained quiet and Mark received a few strange looks from some passers by. He blushed deeply and cursed himself for his sudden brilliant idea. He mouthed “daughter” to them and pointed to the phone.
“I hear you don’t want to wear nappies anymore and I am a bit sad!” he squeaked.
Tammy remained quiet. But Mark continued with his act.
“I saw mummy buying the nappies in the shop and do you know what I did?”
“What?” asked Tammy, sounding intrigued.
“I sprinkled some of my magic powder in them, so they could make you as beautiful as me, and to give you golden wings like me when you are older!” he added, not quite believing he was saying all this in public, much to their amusement.
“Will I be able to fly?” she squeaked.
“OH yes, When you are older then me, yes. But you can’t try to fly until your golden wings grow. Promise me you will not fly unless I tell you, or else I will take the magic powder away!” squeaked Mark, realising the dangers.
“I promise!” smiled Tammy sweetly.
“Good girl. Now are you going to wear your nappies at night from now on?” he squeaked, hoping all this embarrassment he was going through would not be in vain.
“Yes!” she answered, much to his relief.
“Good. Now I have to go, coz Peter Pan is calling me. I’ll put your daddy back on ok?” he squeaked.
Mark waited a second, cleared his throat and then spoke, “OK, did you hear that?”
“Daddy, daddy, Tinkerbell puts magic on my nappies and I am getting wings when I am older and I will be beautiful like her and I will be able to fly when my wings grow!” she raved excitedly.
Mark couldn’t help but laugh at her innocence, “That’s great honey. But you have to wear the nappies AND you have to go to bed!”
“I know!” she sighed.
“OK, so are you going to be a good girl for mummy and go to sleep now?” he asked.
“Yes daddy!” she sang.
“Good girl. Goodnight baby, Put your mummy on please!” he smiled.
He waited and then heard Fina’s voice, “Hi!” she sighed sounding just as fed up as earlier.
“hi love. You ok now?” he asked.
“Yeah. She just refused to go to sleep or put her nappy on until she spoke to you on the phone!” she sighed, “Just had to change all the sheets and everything!”
“Awww honey!” he pouted.
Fina nodded tiredly, “And now the other one has woken up. She is hungry, I expect. It’s 2 in the morning, Mark! I haven’t even stepped inside our bed yet. I am so tired!” she ranted.
Mark knew how hard it must be for her, being on her own with 2 kids for most of the day. She could cope. She had no problem with coping, but she did get tired and he felt bad about that.
“I’ll be home soon ok? They are playing the last songs now and last order at the bar was called out half an hour ago!” he smiled.
“I will probably be in bed by then!” she croaked.
Mark sighed, “I’ll try not to wake you ok? Then tomorrow I will take the kids out and you can have a lie in. How about that?”
“It’s not fair on you, Mark. You work too. You’re tired aswell, having 2 jobs and all!” she sighed.
“It’s my final word, Finnie. NO arguments. Anyway I’ll leave you to it ok, before Emma wakes the neighbours up. Goodnight sweetie!” he smiled.
“Night babe. I love you!” she yawned.
“I love you back. Goodnight!” he blew a kiss down the phone and placed it back in his pocket, wishing the night would come to an end already!

chapter 56

When they both walked back into the club, Mandy excused herself and went to the bathroom to clean her face up a bit. Mark walked to the bar and stood next to Brian. He tapped him on the shoulder and smiled. Brian looked at him and blinked.
“What happened? Did you catch up with her? Did you talk to her? Did she go home?” he asked acceleratedly.
Mark sighed and shook his head “Relax. She is just in the bathroom. Yes I caught up with her and I had a serious word with her!”
Brian blinked, “Well, what did she say? Oh god, what did YOU say?”
Mark laughed, “She is just very confused Brian. She doesn’t know what she wants or what she’s feeling, or even what she is supposed to be feeling. I have managed to get a few things out of her, but that’s for you to discuss. Basically she is very hurt and clearly she still has feelings for Nicky, but that’s just to be expected. I managed to calm her down and told her to look into her heart and to do what it was telling her to do!”
“And what was it telling her to do?” asked Brian.
Mark grinned, “Again, that is for the both of you to discuss, not for me to say. I suggest you go somewhere quiet where you can both talk. Anyway. She is coming over now. I’ll leave you to it!” he winked and patted his back, starting to walk away.
“Thanks Mark. I appreciate it!” called out Brian.
Mark held his hand up and winked at Mandy as he passed by her. Mandy walked to the bar and stood next to Brian.
“Hey!” he smiled at her.
Mandy smiled nervously and looked at the people dancing.
“Are you ok now?” he asked.
Again, she smiled nervously and nodded. Brian stared at her for a moment and then looked away. He so wanted to have that chat with her, but he didn’t want to seem too pushy by asking her. They just remained quiet for a while when Nicky joined them. Mandy looked at him and frowned.
“Mandz, can I talk to you for a sec please?” he asked, grabbing her hands softly
Mandy looked at him, then at Brian, who just looked at them both.
“Nicky, I dunno!” she sighed, pulling her hands away, making them slip away from his.
“Please!” he begged, “Just…Let’s dance and we’ll talk them ok?”
Mandy sighed and got up from the stool. She looked at Brian and smiled, “I’ll be right back! Then we can talk!”
Brian smiled and nodded. Nicky and Mandy walked to the dance floor. He put his arms around her waist and she put hers on his shoulders.
“How are you feeling?” he asked.
Mandy sighed, “Look Nicky. Say whatever it is you need to say and lets get it over with, ok?”
Nicky sighed and nodded, “Mandz, you know that none of this is your fault, right?”
Mandy bowed her head down, “I don’t want to talk about this, ok?”
“Well, you have to, Mandz. You need to talk about it or else you’ll never accept it or get over it!” he answered, knowing he sounded harsh.
“Maybe I don’t want to get over it.” She shrugged.
“What, you want to be confused, hate yourself and be miserable for the rest of your life, do you?” he questioned her.
Mandy sighed and bowed her head down again.
“Shutting this all out is not going to help you, you know? You need to come to terms with it. You need to learn to accept it, so you can move on!” he continued.
“I have my way of dealing with it, ok? I do not need your advice, thank you very much!” she snapped.
“Well, it seems your way is not working out too well, is it?” he answered, as they swayed along to the music.
“I don’t need this, Nicky. Why are you doing this to me?” she whined.
“Coz you need to let all your feelings out. I hate seeing you like this!” she sighed.
“Yeah that’s quite ironic, actually. You hate seeing me like this, yet you are the one who made me feel like this!” she sneered.
“I know you hate me at the moment babe and I don’t blame you!” he sighed.
“I don’t hate you, Nicky!” she sighed back, “Though I really wish I did!”
“Ok then. I know you don’t like me very much at the moment, but one thing you have to know is, it’s not our fault. None of this is your fault. You have done nothing wrong. And neither has Brian, by the way. It’s me, ok? I couldn’t accept who I was. I am the responsible one here. I know you hate yourself babe. I heard you talking to Brian earlier ad you shouldn’t. You shouldn’t hate yourself!” he sighed, pulling her closer towards him and making her rest her head against his chest as they danced, “You’re such a sweetheart! You’re lovely. You’re kind and you’re…you’re beautiful. Any man would be lucky to have you!”
“Then why did you choose not to have me?” she mumbled.
“Coz I am not a man!” he joked. Mandy looked up at him and then looked away, laughing lightly.
“Don’t make me laugh. I am not in the mood to laugh!” she went serious again.
“Seriously though. That’s all I wanted to say. You’re a gorgeous person Mandz, inside and out. Always remember that!” he smiled.
Mandy nodded, “It’s gonna take a while for me to feel good about myself again. My confidence has been knocked for six and I am not getting it back straight away. Too much damage has been done. But thanks for the chat anyway!”
Nicky nodded and kissed her cheek, “Thanks for listening. Now go to Brian coz it looks like he really wants you back!”
Mandy nodded and walked away. She stood in front of Brian and stared at him, “Where shall we go?”
Brian jumped off his stool, “Let’s go outside!” he sighed.
Mandy nodded and followed him out. It was empty and not surprising since it was so cold. Mandy wrapped her arms around herself and shivered. Brian took his jacket off and wrapped it around her, “You’ll catch your death of a cold Brian!” she shrieked.
“Stop arguing and just keep it!” he sighed.
Mandy sighed and stared at him, “You really are the sweetest guy ever, you know that?”
Brian smiled and shrugged, looking away.
“And if my head wasn’t so fucked up I would grab you in an instant and make you mine!” she smiled.
Brian looked at her quickly, “What makes you think I would have you?”
Mandy sighed and shook her head, “Oh, well…I dunno, I just…”
Brian smiled, “Only kidding babe!”
Mandy smiled and looked away. She wrapped her arms around herself and walked around him, “I just…I feel numb. I don’t know if what I feel is genuine or not!”
“What is it you feel Mandz?” he asked nervously.
Mandy looked at him, “Could you please not look at me while I say this?” she blushed.
“What? Why?” he laughed.
“Please, just don’t!” she sighed.
Brian shrugged and turned around. Mandy placed her hands on the railings and looked over the terrace, “I…well…you…I mean….Brian!”
“Just tell me!” he sighed.
Mandy sighed, closed her eyes, took a deep breath and decided to brave it, “I think you’re special. I think we’d be amazing together, Brian. You’re a lovely guy. I mean, you’re sensitive, sensible, reliable, funny, emotional, very good looking, and most of all, you have a fantastic character. You are one in a million Brian. There are not enough men like you. You could have anyone you really wanted. You’re amazing.!”
Brian smiled and turned around to look at her.
“And not to mention, a fantastic shag too!” she joked.
Brian now laughed and walked closer to her.
“Seriously though, you’re an amazing guy and I do like you. I really do, Brian. It’s just…My head is so screwed up. I don’t want to get into anything at the moment, because I am not too sure if these feelings are genuine or if I am just on the rebound and looking for someone to replace the love I have lost!” she sighed, “And I just don’t want to end up hurting you in the end Brian!”
“I could really love you like you want me to, Mandz!” he said, standing behind her.
Mandy turned around when she heard his voice so close and jumped slightly when she saw him standing there. She took a step back and smiled, “I know you could Brian. I do not doubt it for a second. And I really do want to give us a chance. I really, really do. But I need time to get over everything that has happened. I need to sort my own head out before I jump into another relationship. I wouldn’t be any good to ANY bloke at the moment!”
“You’d be good for me!” he smiled, rubbing her cheek with his thumb, “But I know what you mean. I will wait for you, Mandy!”
Mandy shook her head “I cannot ask you to wait for me Brian! I don’t want you wasting your time on me!”
Brian smiled and rubbed her other cheek, “If getting you at the end is what I’ll get, then I don’t care about how much time I waste, babe!”
Mandy looked at him and smiled, “Thank you!”
Brian looked at her seriously, “Just one thing though!”
Mandy looked at him and blinked.
“There will probably be times when you’ll flirt and possibly pull some other bloke. That is part of the healing process. And while I am hear to listen to every exciting thing that has happened to you, I draw the line at listening about your sex shenanigans with other men ok? Please spare me the details!” he smiled.
Mandy looked at him and smiled, “One night stands are not my thing Brian, but yeah. I will keep them to myself.”
Brian snorted with laughter.
“What?” asked Mandy confused.
“One night stands ain’t your thing? What was I then?” he chuckled.
Mandy smiled, “OK, so it happened once. Sue me!”
Brian laughed and kissed her lips gently, “You’re lovely!”
Mandy smiled, “Thank you for being so patient with me Brian. It really means a lot to me!”
Brian smiled and hugged her, “I have all the patience in the world when you are involved babe. You’re well worth the wait!”

chapter 55

Brian finally pulled away from Mandy and stared at her with a huge smirk on his face. He put his hands on his hips and raised his eyebrows at her.
“Weren’t expecting that, were you?” he smirked.
Mandy just scowled and looked away, “I hate you!”
“And I love you too!” he grinned.
“No, I said I hate you!” she groaned even louder.
“Yeah I know. And I said I love you too!” he laughed.
Mandy just turned her head and stared at him, “Do you have any idea how fucking annoying you are?”
Brian shrugged and stuffed his hands in his pocket, “Well, do you have any idea how fucking sexy you are?”
Mandy now shook with anger, “Why are you doing this?” she screamed, stamping her feet.
“Doing what, sweetheart? What am I doing?” he grinned.
“Trying to wind me up. Trying to annoy me! I thought we were friend!” she cried.
“We are!” he shrugged, “Which is exactly why I am doing this!”
“No. A friend would let me get on with things!” she sniffed.
Brian shook his head, “No. A REAL friend would stop you from doing something you would regret in the morning. Mandy, you are not even properly pissed for fucks sake, and here you are, acting like this. I know your self esteem is at its lowest at the moment, but this is not the way to raise it. You will only end up hurting and hating yourself! IS that what you want?”
Mandy bowed her head down and shrugged, “I already hate myself Brian! I despise myself!”
She started running off when Brian ran after her. He was not letting her go this time. HE caught up with her and stopped her, “Wait!” he panted, grabbing her arm.
“Leave me alone!” she screamed, pulling her arm away, “Just leave me alone!”
She ran upstairs and out of the club. Brian sighed and went upstairs slowly, knowing she had already disappeared on him. Mark just stared at him.
“Don’t ask, mate!” sighed Brian.
“I’m not on duty anymore. Want me to find her and have a word?” he offered.
“That would be great, thanks. It would do her good to listen to someone else. She just won’t listen to me!” sighed Brian.
Mark nodded and ran off. Brian sighed and went back downstairs. He ordered himself a drink and sat at the bar. HE then got a cigarette and lit it up.
“Shouldn’t you be with her?” asked Nicky from behind him.
Brian turned around and rolled his eyes. He was the last person he wanted to talk to, “Yes I should. Only she won’t let me anywhere near her!”
“IS she ok?” he asked.
Brian looked at him and sighed, “What do you fucking think?”
“You are not really together, are you?” he asked.
“Well spotted mate. Well bloody done! Nothing really gets by you, does it?” he rolled his eyes in sarcasm.
Nicky sighed, “I’m sorry. This is all my fault!”
“Yes, it is!” growled Brian, “If you had been honest with her from the start, then she might not be so fucked up in the head!”
“I know!” sighed Nicky, “It was just hard!”
Brian closed his eyes, knowing he shouldn’t have snapped at him like that, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean that. Yeah I can imagine it would be hard!”
“I guess I should talk to her!” shrugged Nicky, looking back.
Brian looked at him and raised an eyebrow as he took a sip of his drink, “Do you really think that would help?”
“Well, I dunno. But I can try!” he shrugged.
Brian sighed and turned around again as Nicky sat on the stool next to him, “Her self esteem is really low at the moment. She feels like she is the ugliest creature on earth at the moment, when we all know that’s a load of bollocks. She needs to build her self-esteem back up again and she is trying to do that by trying to get some male attention. It is only normal, I suppose. But she feels that’s the only way to do it. We need to convince her that she is worth much more than a couple of one night stands she will only regret!”
Nicky nodded, “I’ll take her out for lunch on Monday!”
Brian shook his head, “No, don’t ask her out to lunch. She will only build her hopes up. Just meet her at the café without telling her anything. I’ll make sure she goes down!”
Nicky smiled and nodded, “Ok then. You let me know the details ok?”
Brian stubbed his cigarette out and nodded. Nicky smiled and turned around, walking away. Be fore he did so, he turned again and looked at Brian, “Thanks for looking after her. She needs a mate like you around!”
Brian pressed his lips together and nodded before Nicky turned to walk away.

Mandy continued running when she was stopped by someone tugging on her arm. Thinking it was Brian, she violently pulled away and screamed at him, “I said leave me alone!”
Mark kept a firm grip on her, “Not until you calm down!” he calmly explained.
Hearing Mark’s voice, Mandy stopped struggling and turned around to look at him, “Mark!” she gasped.
He smiled at her and nodded.
“What are you doing here?” she gasped.
“Someone had to come after you.” he smiled.
Mandy stared at him for a while and then bowed her head down, “He sent you, didn’t he?”
Mark shook his head, “Noone sent me. I just thought you might need a bit of company and someone to talk to, so I came after you!”
Mandy sighed and sat on the nearest bench. Mark slowly sat next to her, “Talk to me Mand!”
“About what?” she shrugged, chewing on her nails.
“About what’s going on in your mind! How are you feeling? What is it you want?” he shrugged.
Mandy sighed and shook her head, “I cannot talk about that!”
“Why not?” asked Mark, confused.
“Coz I have no idea how I am feeling. I don’t have a clue about what I want. My mind is a big knotted mess which I cannot understand!” she cried getting up and putting her hands on her head, “I am just so confused!”
“Yes I can imagine you are. I know you are going through a very tough time at the moment, Mandy, and I know you have a lot on your mind. Noone expects you to deal with it alone. We are all trying to be here for you. We are all trying to be your friend. Even Brian!” he explained.
Mandy slowly sat back down and put her head on her hands, “Brian!” she whispered.
“What about him?” asked Mark.
Mandy sighed and shook her head.
“He thinks the world of you, you know that, right?” he asked.
Mandy raised her head, “I cannot get involved with him Mark. It’s too soon!” she admitted.
“Noone is asking you to get involved with anyone. I am just asking you how you feel about him!” he smiled.
“Well…he’s a great friend. I see him and he instantly makes me feel warm inside. He is always making me laugh and I love him for it. He’s great company!” she shrugged.
“Great company!” repeated Mark, “Is that all?”
Mandy sighed, “He’s a great friend!”
“Friend!” repeated Mark.
“Fucks sake, Mark, what do you want me to say that he’s a great lover? Coz I wouldn’t know!” she huffed.
Mark shook his head and tried not to laugh, “What is it you want at the moment?”
Mandy shrugged, “I told you. I do not know!”
Mark smiled, “Ok, close your eyes for a minute!” he smiled.
Mandy looked at him curiously.
“Trust me. Just close them!” he laughed.
Mandy sighed and closed her eyes.
“Ok, now look deep into your heart. Feel your heart!” he smiled, placing her hand on her chest, “Just feel it beating. Look into that heart and then tell me what it is telling you to do!”
There was a pause for a while.
“I want….” She paused again.
Mark smiled, “Go on!”
“I want someone to love me. I want to share my life with someone who is honest and kind and loving. Someone who will treat me like a princess. I want my life to finally be happy and I want to share that life with the man who does that…a man who makes me happy…a man who makes me smile…a man who…a man who makes me laugh. I want to spend the rest of my life loving this man!” she mumbled.
Mark smiled, “Do you know anyone who could do that?”
Mandy sighed and nodded, “I always thought Nicky could, but I was wrong. He wasn’t honest with me. But I know Brian is!”
She opened her eyes, shocked at her own confession. She looked at Mark who just grinned at her.
“OH god, what am I saying?” she shrieked, getting up.
“Just follow your heart, Mandy!” smiled Mark.
“But I am not ready.” She whined, “My head is telling me to play the field a bit. There are plenty of men to choose from!”
Mark sighed, “Then listen to your head for a wee bit, give it what it wants but then you must follow your heart. Your heart is always right. It always takes you to good places. The heart does not know of any bad places.” He smiled, “It will never let you down!”
“Yeah, but there is this constant battle between my head and my heart, and just when I think my heart is winning, along comes my head and springs up again. I dunno what I want anymore Mark!” she cried.
Mark smiled and held her in her arms, swaying her back and forth, “It’s hard, I know. When I met Fina, I was like you. Someone I thought would be THE ONE had just dumped me! OH yeah, it took me a while to trust anyone again, but Fina kept being there for me. And eventually I realised. I loved her all along. I just never thought I did, because she was being a friend, but I loved her!”
Mandy looked up at him, “How did you finally know?”
Mark smiled, “It was one day when she went on holiday with her parents. I was left alone here in Dublin. I realised how much I missed her. I couldn’t be without her anymore. I missed her smell, I missed her touch, I missed her voice. I missed everything about her. I couldn’t be without her anymore!”
“And what happened?” sniffed Mandy.
“Well, I waited until she got back. And when she did, I kissed her. She did not even pull away. I kissed her. And the moment I did, I realised, she really was THE ONE! And here we are, Still together and still very much in love, with 2 kids. And hoping for a third!” he winked.
Mandy just sighed.
“What I suggest is to have a really good chat with Brian. Tell him what you have just told me. Clearly, you are not ready for a relationship yet and with good reason too. I am sure he understands that. Tonight, he was just stopping you from making a huge mistake. That guy you were trying to pull was bad news, Mandz. I told him that, so its my fault he interfered. I have seen that guy in here before. He would hurt you, even on a one-night stand! Brian was just trying to protect you…like friends do!”
Mandy nodded, “Yeah, I know!”
“Here’s what we are going to do now. We are going back to the club. You are going to get Brian and you are going to talk to him!” he smiled.
Mandy sniffed and nodded, pulling away from him, “Yeah, I suppose!”
Mark laughed, “There’s no suppose about it. You are going to talk to him and you are going to set the record straight with him. The sooner you do that, the better!”
Mandy smiled and nodded.
“Come on then. Let’s go” grinned Mark.

chapter 55

Chapter 55

Mandy and Brian walked inside the club. The first thing Mandy did was scan the crowded nightclub until she finally spotted Nicky, who was at the bar chatting to Charlie. She froze as she saw him taking a sip of his beer and laughing along to something Charlie had said. Brian looked at her and rubbed her back, “We can still go somewhere else babe!”
Mandy swallowed hard and shook her head, “NO it’s ok. I’ll be ok!”
“Are you sure?” he checked.
Mandy faked a smile and nodded.
“Very well then. I’ll just go and get us a drink. You stay here ok?” he smiled, continuing rubbing her back.
Mandy nodded and continued staring at Nicky. He hadn’t seen her yet and he seemed far too busy letching onto Charlie to even notice anyone within a one meter radius. She sighed and then looked at Brian. She gasped when she saw him standing next to Nicky. To her horror, the next thing she saw was the both of them talking, and acting civil. She shook her head and looked up.

“Brian!” said Nicky.
“Hi!” smiled Brian uncomfortably, looking back at Mandy briefly. HE saw her looking up at the ceiling and then looked at the bar.
“How’s Mandy?” he asked.
Brian shrugged, “Bearing up. Poor girl doesn’t know whether she is coming or going anymore!”
“Yeah, I can imagine!” he sighed.
Brian shrugged again and ordered his drinks.
“Does she hate me?” he asked.
Brian looked at him and sighed. He couldn’t help but feel sorry for the guy/ He had been living a lie for so lone and it took him a lot of guts to come clean to Mandy.
“No Nicky. She does not hate you. She pretty much is still head over heels in love with you!” he sighed.
Nicky bowed his head and nodded, “I didn’t mean to hurt her, you know?”
Brian nodded, “I know!”
“I just couldn’t live a lie anymore!” he frowned.
“You don’t have to justify yourself to me, mate. It’s none of my business really!” sighed Brian, feeling more uncomfortable.
“I am worried about her though!” sighed Nicky.
“Don’t be! She’s a strong ‘un. She’ll be ok!” smiled Brian, “And I can keep my eye on her!”
Nicky smiled and nodded, “IS she at home now?”
“No. She’s over there!” smiled Brian, nudging his head towards Mandy’s direction, “I practically forced her out tonight!”

Mandy saw him nudging his head towards her and shut her eyes, “God no Brian. What are you doing?” she mumbled to herself. She opened her eyes and saw Nicky looking at her.

Nicky looked towards Mandy. Her face fell when she saw him looking her way. He smiled at her and gave her a wave. Mandy nodded her head, acknowledging his gesture and then looked away.
“Do you think she’ll talk to me?” asked Nicky, still staring at her.
“You can try, but I cannot guarantee it!” shrugged Brian, “Just don’t say anything that would make her get the wrong idea ok?”
Nicky nodded and smiled. Brian grabbed his drink and followed Nicky. Mandy’s heart flipped when she saw Nicky walking towards her.
“Please don’t come over. Please say he is going to the loo!” she prayed to herself.
She seriously contemplated running away but knew she couldn’t. She took deep breaths and shuffled nervously on her feet.
“Hi babe!” smiled Nicky, now standing opposite her.
“Hi!” she answered uncomfortably, looking at Brian behind him. She couldn’t look at Nicky in the eye.
“Do you want a drink?” he offered.
Mandy shook her head and walked towards Brian, putting her arm around his waist, “NO thanks. Brian’s already got me one, didn’t you honey?” she smiled up at him.
Brian looked at her confused, wondering what she was doing.
“Oh! So you two are together then?” asked Nicky.
“No!” answered Brian.
“Yes!” answered Mandy simultaneously. She looked at Brian and let out a nervous laughter as Nicky looked on in confusion.
“OH he’s such a kidder! Always pretending we are not together!”
She ran her fingers down his chest, “but we are together and very much in love!”
Nicky smiled, “That’s great. I am really happy for you!”
Mandy was not prepared for that reply, “Yeah, well…”
She wanted him to fight for her. She wanted him to refuse Brian having her and for him to whisk her off her feet again, like he did all those years ago. She sighed and looked away. She then let go of Brian and folded her arms.
“Well, I’d better get back, I need another drink!” smiled Nicky.
Mandy nodded and Nicky walked off. Brian stood opposite her with his arms folded, “What the fuck was all that about?” he questioned.
Mandy sighed, “I dunno. I couldn’t help myself. I don’t want him to think that I am hung up on him.”
“But you ARE hung up on him!” he answered.
Mandy looked at him quickly, “NO I am not!”
“Yes you are babe. If you weren’t, then you wouldn’t be so nervous around him and you certainly wouldn’t have stopped outside his house on the way over, wondering if he was in or not!” he insisted.
“I am so not hung up on him Brian. If I was hung up on him, do you think I would be here right now? As soon as Mark said he was in here, I would have immediately left. I am not hung up on him at all. I am so over him already!” she argued.
Brian sighed and stared at her, “Babe! No you are not and noone expects you to be. Not yet! It’s far too soon for you to be over him. I mean, you’ve been together for ages!”
Mandy fumed at him, “What the fuck do you know anyway? I am over him, Brian McFadden, no matter what you or anyone else thinks. I am well over him!”
She stormed off with her drink and sat at the bar. Brian sighed and shook his head. Mark walked down for a break and joined Brian. HE tapped him on the shoulder and smiled.
“Where’s Mandy?” he smiled.
Brian took a sip of his drink and nudged his head at Mandy, who was sulking heavily at the bar.
“Another argument?” he laughed.
Brian sighed and nodded.
“What was it about now?” chuckled Mark.
“I said she wasn’t over Nicky and she insists that she is!” he shrugged, “And then she went off on one!”
Mark patted his back and laughed. He looked at Mandy and then looked at Brian “Well if I were you, I would go over there and fast before that guy takes advantage of her!”
Brian looked her way and saw a tall brunette talking to her. She talked back to him and smiled. Brian sighed and walked over to her.
“Mandz!” he sighed.
“Not now, Brian. I am talking to someone!” she growled.
“Mandz, come on.” He sighed, grabbing her arm and pulling her off the stool.
Mandy violently pulled away from him, “Can’t you see that I’m busy? Fuck off!” she snarled, looking defiantly at him.
Brian sighed and looked at the guy, “I am sorry man, but she’s with me. She’s just had a few too many!” The guy shrugged and walked off. Mandy stared at Brian with her mouth wide open.
“What the fuck did you do that for? I was so in there!” she spat.
“Yeah, and I am not letting some bloke you hardly know take advantage of you. You don’t even know him, Mandy!” he argued.
Mandy stared at him, When did you become my father?” she shrieked.
“I am just stopping you from making a huge mistake, that’s all!” he argued.
“No, you are stopping me from having fun!” she growled.
“You wanna have fun? How’s this for fun?” he shouted, pressing his lips hard against hers, placing his hand behind her neck. He let his tongue lick her lips, forcing them open. Mandy pulled away and stared at him, “What the fuck are you doing?” she screamed.
“Giving Nicky an eyeful. That’s what you wanted, wasn’t it?” he screamed back.
“How dare you!” she shrieked back, “You haven’t got a clue about what I fucking want!”
“NO, you’re right. I don’t. But then again, neither do you!” he screamed.
Mandy looked at him and smirked, “You wanna play games Brian? Very well. I am up for it!”
She jumped off the stool, walked slowly towards him, put her hands on his arse and pushed him tighter against her, pressing his butt cheeks slightly. Brian just looked at her in shock.
“Come on then, big boy. Let’s play!” she smirked.
To her surprise, Brian called her bluff and started kissing her, grinding his hips against hers. She had expected him to reject her advances. Instead he welcomed then. She didn’t know what to do next!

chapter 53

Brian was sitting on the sofa, doing nothing, just relaxing, when Mandy walked in, after vacuuming her room.
“So…still up to going out tonight?” he grinned.
“I guess!” she shrugged, throwing herself on the sofa.
“Wow. Please do contain your excitement babe. Really, it’s all too much!” he sighed sarcastically.
Mandy smiled, “I am sorry Brian. I am just a bit tired after doing my room!”
“Well, we don’t have to go out if you don’t want to!” he shrugged, “I could get us a takeaway and a good dvd to watch!”
Mandy stared at him, undecided, “I dunno!”
Brian looked at her and blinked, “S’up to you babe!”

Mandy thought about this for a while and sighed, “Let’s just go out!”
“You sure?” he asked, raising his eyebrows.
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Yeah. I am just gonna go up and shower ok?”
Brian smiled and nodded, “I’ll go and get ready!”
When Mandy came out of the shower, she looked through her wardrobe, wondering what to wear. She finally opted for her tight ¾ blue jeans and a blue top, tied at the waist and baggy underneath. She let the strings hang down each side and then went to straighten her hair. She pressed the straightener over a length of her shoulder length red hair and slid it down to the tips, leaving it sleeky and shiny. When she was done, she put her make up on and then heard a knock on the door.
“Come in!” she yelled with her mouth wide open as she applied her mascara. She saw Brian through the mirror and smiled at him, still with her mouth open. He looked at her and smiled, “Doing your fish impressions again?”
Mandy laughed, “Shut up, you!”
“Looking good!” he complimented with a laugh.
Mandy smiled and looked at him with his light blue jeans and white shirt. The top 3 buttons were undone and she could smell his Jean Paul Gautier l’homme cologne from miles away. She loved that cologne. She only hoped she’d be able to keep her hands off him. She knew how flirty she could be with a few drinks down her. Ad she intended on getting drunk tonight. Even though she promised herself she wouldn’t drink anymore the last time she got paraletic. Brian sat on the bed and stared at her a she put her jewellery on. She looked at him and he smiled at her.
“Bored of waiting, are you?” she grinned.
He just shrugged and chewed on his nails. Mandy laughed and shook her head. She finally put her shoes on and grabbed her bag. She then sprayed some cool water for women on and then looked at him.
“Well, Macca. I am ready. We can go now!” she smiled, handing the bag over her shoulder.
Brian got up and swang his arm in front of him as he walked to the door, “After you!”
Mandy walked out and down the stairs with Brian after her. They decided on walking to Club M, since it was not that far from them. Mandy tensed up as she passed by Nicky’s house. Brian noticed and rubbed her shoulder as she stopped, “You ok babe?”
Mandy just stared at the house, “I wonder if he’s in!”
“So what if he is?” questioned Brian.
Mandy shrugged, “I dunno!” she sighed.
Brian grabbed her arm and pulled her away, “come on. Let’s just go!”
Mandy continued looking through the window as she walked away.
They finally arrived at Club M and Mark was at the door.
“Freddiiiiiie!” shouted Brian, high-fiving him, “How’s things?”
Mark laughed, “Hey. Not too bad ta! Hi Mandz!” he smiled, now looking at her.
Mandy smiled, “You alright Mark?”
Mark nodded, “So what’s it like living with this slob?” he asked, nudging his head at Brian.
Brian grinned and stared at Mandy. Mandy looked at him and laughed “It’s ok!”
Mark widened his eyes, “So you don’t mind the mess? My kind of woman!” he joked.
Mandy looked at him, “He is not really that messy!”
Mark snorted. Mandy looked at him and then looked at Brian, who tried his hardest at looking innocent, but failing miserably.
“Give it a few days, love. And I shall ask you the same question. Let’s see how different your answer will be!” chuckled Mark.
Mandy giggled and Mark stopped laughing.
“What?” asked Mandy.
Mark looked at Brian and then at Mandy. He looked concerned.
“Mark? What’s up?” asked Brian.
Mandy looked at him curiously as she saw him looking at the door.
“I have just suddenly remembered who is down there!” he gasped.
“Who?” asked Brian suspiciously.
From the looks on Mark’s face, Mandy could guess.
“It’s Nicky, isn’t it?” she sighed.
Mark gulped and nodded.
Mandy looked at Brian and then at Mark again, “Is he alone?”
Mark bit his lip and shook his head.
“With Charlie?” she questioned, already knowing the answer.
Mark slowly nodded his head. Mandy sighed and looked at Brian. He just shrugged and looked at her, “It’s up to you darling. We could go somewhere else, or we could go back home. Dvd shop is still open!”
Mandy looked at the door and then at Brian, “You know what? He is not driving me away. We’re all adults here. I am sure we can cope!”
Brian looked at her and smiled, “Are you sure, love?”
Mandy nodded adamantly, “Positive! I cannot keep avoiding him. The sooner I start facing him, the better!”
Brian smiled and rubbed her arm, “That’s my girl!”
Mark smiled and untied the rope from the post, “Ok then. You guys have fun tonight. And be good. Don’t drink too much!” he winked.

chapter 53

Mandy awoke the following morning bright and early. She walked downstairs to make herself some breakfast. She had heard Brian moving around in his room, so she knew he was awake too. She put 4 slices of bread into the toaster and flicked the switch on the kettle. She then made 2 cups of coffee.
“Morning!” came Brian’s voice behind her.
She turned around quickly and gasped softly when she saw him in his football kit. He looked so sexy with his green and white stripy shirt and white shorts. She looked at his bare legs and then slowly up at his face. Brian noticed her reaction and smiled, “Do you approve then?” he grinned.
Mandy blushed and turned around quickly. She opened the cupboard door to get the sugar out. She got on her tiptoes to try and reach it, but it was no good. Brian saw her struggling and reached for it from behind her. He grabbed it and placed it on the counter, “There you go love!” he smiled.
Mandy stayed with her back facing him, “Thanks!”
“So…Did you sleep ok?” he asked, as he pulled the toast out of the toaster. He put them into an empty plate and then on the table. Mandy poured the water into the coffee prepared mugs and nodded.
“Butter?” he asked, looking back at her with the knife in the tub.
Mandy looked back at him, not knowing what he was on about. She saw a knife on his hand with a blob of butter on it, ready to butter the toast. She smiled and nodded, “Thanks!”
“You know, this is the first time you have spent the night in this house and not run away!” he grinned, buttering the toast.
Mandy sighed and bowed her head, “Brian, don’t!”
“Oh, there’s no hard feelings Mandz. Don’t worry!” he chuckled.
“Still, it makes me feel uncomfortable, ok?” she moaned.
“Why? It was fantastic sex!” he grinned, “Best I’ve had in ages actually!”
Mandy blushed heavily as she stirred the coffees.
Brian laughed, “Aww don’t blush babe. It’s supposed to be a compliment!”
Mandy shook her head, “Can you end this conversation, please?” she asked uncomfortably.
“Ok, ok, I’m sorry!” he laughed, “Anyway, all set for today?”
Mandy nodded as she placed his coffee in front of him, “Thanks!” he smiled, placing her toast in front of her. Mandy sat down and started eating it.
“God you make a much better room mate that Kian. It’s a nice sight to wake up to, plus we have breakfast very nicely organised. Nothing better than a bit of team work!” he grinned.
Mandy giggled, not knowing what to say!
“You’re awfully quiet this morning babe. Are you ok?” he asked, genuinely worried.
Mandy nodded, “I am fine, thanks!”
“Are you sure? It’s not because of the compliments earlier is it?” he checked.
Mandy looked at him and shook her head.
“Good. What is it then?” he asked.
“Leave it Brian!” she sighed.
“Oh come on. You can tell me!” he nudged her.
Mandy got up and stared at him, “I said leave it, alright?” she snapped as she stormed out. Brian sat there in shock before he got up and followed her to the living room. He saw Mandy rocking on the sofa with her hands over her face.
“Erm, care to explain?” he asked, standing on the doorway.
Mandy said nothing. She just continued rocking back and forth, sniffing every now and then.
“What is it I have done wrong, Mandy? Why are you so pissed off with me?” he asked.
Mandy removed her hands from her face and sighed, “Nothing. You have done nothing wrong Bri and I am not pissed off with you!”
“Yeah, could’ve fooled me!” he moaned.
“I’m not!” she argued.
“Then what the fuck is wrong with you?” he asked exasperatedly.
“I had a dream last night. I dreamt Nicky realised he made a mistake and turned out not to be gay. It felt so good. He took me back and we were happy again. I felt so much happiness in my dream. And then…and then I woke up and realised…well…That’s never going to happen, is it?” she frowned.
Brian slowly shook his head and sat beside her, staring at her.
“I am never getting him back. He is gonna make his life with Charlie and I am never going to be happy again!” she sniffed.
“Mandz. You know that’s not true babe. You will be happy again. Maybe not now and maybe not for a while. But you will feel happiness again… I promise!” he whispered, grabbing her hand.
Mandy sniffed and nodded glumly, “I am sorry Brian. I didn’t mean to snap at you!”
“I know!” he smiled, “But I am glad you talked to me about it. I will always be here for you!”
“I know!” she smiled, hugging him. Brian closed his eyes as he hugged her back. He then pulled away and looked at her, “Are you going to be ok? Coz I need to go now!”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “I’ll be fine. I just need to finish my breakfast and then I’ll get started on my room!”
Brian smiled and nodded, “I’ll be back this afternoon and I’ll give you a hand ok? Bye darling!”
He kissed her cheek and ran off.
When he returned 3 hours later, he was all sweaty and muddy. His hair was a mess and he had cuts and grazes all over his knees. He walked up the stairs and past Mandy’s room. The door was open and he looked in. He saw Mandy stood on the chair, putting the curtains up. He put his hands on his hips and smiled, “Wow! I would never have recognised this room!”
Mandy looked back with a pin in her mouth and smiled. She tried to talk to him, but it was inaudible. She just panted and raised her eyebrows a lot.
“Sorry babe. I don’t get what you are trying to tell me!” he laughed.
Mandy tried again, nudging her furiously and pointing at something, but Brian still didn’t get it.
“What?” he squeaked.
Mandy rolled her eyes, let go of the curtain, held the pin in her hand, taking it away from her mouth and yelled, “I said will you mind yourself? The walls are still wet. Fucking hell Brian!”
Brian laughed and moved away, “Thanks for the warning!”
“Yeah well. Now I have to start counting the pins again!” she sighed, reaching back up.
“Ooh I am sorry. How am I supposed to know what this…” he laughed, nudging his head forwards, “..and this…” he added, mumbling inaudible noises, “…and this…” he continued raising his eyebrows till he couldn’t rise them, anymore, “…means!”
Mandy smiled and shook her head.
“It’s called common sense Bri, Something you lack!” she smirked.
Brian laughed and shook his head, “Anything I can do to help?”
Mandy looked back at him as she took the pin out of her mouth and put it on the curtain, “Yeah, fuck off out of my room before you get something dirty!” she grinned at him.
“Oh charming!” he rolled his eyes.
“no offence hun, but I am fine here by myself!” she smiled calmly.
“None taken. I am sure!” he smirked, “Anyway, I am off to have my shower!”
“Yeah, you do that!” she teased, wafting her hand over her nose.
“Oi, stop being so bloody cheeky” he laughed, slapping her leg playfully and walking off to the bathroom.
Mandy smiled and went to put the other curtain up. When she got off the chair to get it, she put the music on and climbed back on the chair. Brian came out of the bathroom and looked at the room again. He laughed when he saw Mandy wiggling her bottom to the music and singing at the top of her lungs.
“Don’t give up your day job, love!” He shouted teasingly above the music.
Mandy quickly looked back and he breath got caught in her throat. This time it was his turn to tantalise her with a towel wrapped around his waist. She swallowed hard when she saw the droplets of water on his chest. She then managed a smile. NO words would come out of her mouth. Brian grinned a she jumped off the chair when she finished putting the curtain up. She turned the music down and pinned her hair up again as she stared at him.
“You done?” he asked, turning around o look at the walls, giving her a very good view of the shape of his rear.
Mandy shook her head, “Yeah, still need to do the bottom!”
She realised her mistake and widened her eyes at herself whilst a deep blush formed on her cheek. Brian turned around quickly and looked at her, “sorry? The bottom of what?” he looked confused.
She blushed even more at her own mistake and turned around so he wouldn’t notice, “I meant the duvet!”
“But why did you say bottom?” he asked. Then he clicked and let out a smirk. He saw her blush and shook his head. “Oh!” he grinned.
“I meant the bottom side of the curtains!” she suddenly thought, “I thought they needed hemming!”
“Course you did!” he thought to himself. Instead he smiled and nodded, not wanting to embarrass her anymore than she already was.
Mandy smiled and grabbed the duvet. She grabbed the cover she had made and put it on it. She then did her pillowcases and remade her bed. Next, as Brian went to his room to get dressed, Mandy adorned her bedroom with candles and figurines of teddies that she had bought. She then plugged in her nice white flowers scented plug in. She put her hands on her hips and looked around, smiling. Brian looked around shocked when he walked in, “Wow!” he gasped.
“You like?” she grinned, standing back and placing herself beside him.
Brian put his hand around her waist and nodded, “Looks a lot nicer. Not used to seeing this room so girly! And it smells like a girls room too.” He laughed, giving her waist a gentle squeeze.
Mandy tried hard not to let his touch affect her too much. She had to concentrate hard on other things.
“I just need to get some pictures for the wall and a nice cushion for the bed and that’s it!” she smiled proudly.
Brian smiled and rubbed his hand on her back, “Looks great babe. Well done!” he kissed the top of her head.
Mandy stepped away from him with the excuse to move the candles around. She could not take his touch anymore without turning around and just kissing the life out of him. She couldn’t let that happen. She couldn’t let him know what his touch was doing to her

chapter 52

The rest of the week had gone really well for Mandy. She and Brian got in brilliantly and even though she felt uncomfortable around Nicky, she was on speaking terms with him. She had just been to see her solicitor about a divorce, when she came home, laden with decorating stuff for her room. She had planned on spending the weekend doing her room up. She walked into the living room and saw Brian laying there watching Telly. He looked at her and smiled as he straightened up on the sofa.
“Hiya love. How did it go at the solicitors?” he smiled.
“It went ok. I filed for divorce!” she shrugged with a sigh.
Brian got up and walked towards her, “Awww babe, you’re doing the right thing. The sooner you get it over and done with the better!” he soothed, rubbing her back.
Mandy sighed and nodded against his chest. Brian pulled away and looked at her.
“What have you got there then?” he smiled, nudging his head towards the plastic bags.
“OH some paint and material and stuff for my room. I am decorating this weekend!” she smiled.
“Oh great. I’ll give you a hand then!” he grinned.
“If you want!” she shrugged.
Brian stood there, staring at mid air for a while, “Oh shit!” he suddenly cursed, “I am supposed to be playing football with the lads tomorrow afternoon!”
Mandy shrugged, “So?”
“So I won’t be able to help you. I’ll just call them and cancel!” he sighed, grabbing the cordless from the table.
Mandy ran to him and stopped him, “You’ll do no such thing. Don’t cancel. Just go and play footie. I can manage on my own!”
“Mandz. It’ll be quicker with 2 of us!” he argued.
Mandy shook her head, “ I can cope, Brian. IN the morning I shall paint the room and whilst I am waiting for it to dry, I’ll make the curtains!”
“Make the curtains?” he questioned.
Mandy smiled and nodded.
“So they are not ready made?” he questioned again.
Mandy shook her head, “no. Normally I make my own. I don’t usually like the ready made ones. Either the style is all wrong or the colours are not to my liking. SO I just buy the material and make them myself!”
“Wow! Is there anything you can’t do?” he smiled, “Nicky sure was a fool to let you go!”
Mandy bowed her head down and frowned. Brian instantly realised his mistake, “OH god, babe, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean it like that…oh shit!” he cursed.
“It’s ok!” she sighed.
Brian stared at her and leaned his head back on the sofa.
“Well, I guess I’d better put all this upstairs and then I’ll have a shower!” she sighed. She then stopped and looked back at Brian, “Oh Bri. Do you have a tape measure? I want to measure the windows so can get started on the curtains tonight!”
Brian smiled and nodded, “Yeah. It’s in my room. Top drawer on the nightstand. Just go in and get it babe!” he winked.
Mandy nodded and thanked him as she walked upstairs. She opened his door and let herself in. She looked around the bedroom, remembering what happened the last time she had stepped inside his room. She sighed and shook her head free of those thoughts. She then sat on the bed and opened the top drawer. Straight away, she saw the tape measure laying there. She grabbed it and took it out and as she did so, something fell on the floor. It was a picture. She picked it up and stared at it.
“OH my god!” she gasped, not taking her eyes off it. She stared at her own image in it, only 10 tears younger. He was standing next to her with his arm around her. It was at that party they went to when they went as dates. She laughed lightly at it at the state of her hair and laughed even more at the state of Brian’s hair. She did not notice Brian coming in, “Did you find…” he stared at her, staring at the picture, “…it…What are you looking at?” He walked over to her and towered above her.
Mandy looked at him, “Where did you get this from?” she screeched in laughter.
Brian sat beside her and stared at the picture, “Oh, my mate took that picture and gave it to me when he had it developed!” he smiled, looking down at it.
“How come you still have it?” she asked with a grin.
Brian shrugged, “I dunno. I was looking through my old photos the other day and I came across it!”
“And how come its in your beside drawer?” she queried.
Brian blushed deeply. What he really wanted to tell her was that it was the only way it would be her face he saw last thing at night and first thing in the morning. He wanted to tell her how he kissed that picture every time he went to bed. But somehow, he knew she wouldn’t agree with it. Instead he sighed.
“Brian?” she asked.
Brian zoomed back down to reality, “oh uh…I kept it there to show you, but I kept forgetting!” he lied.
Mandy smiled and looked at it again, “It’s a great picture.” She stared at him hugging her and kissing her cheek. She was laughing hysterically in it as he did so. She smiled at it again and put it back in the drawer. She then closed it and stood up, as she looked at Brian, “Well, thanks for the tape measure.”
Brian nodded and put the music on. Mandy went to her room, measured her window and then went to have her shower. When she was done, she walked back to her room, wearing nothing but a towel around her body and a smaller one around her head. Brian came out of his room and saw her. His breath got caught in his throat. She looked at him ad smiled. He just stared at her.
“You ok?” she smiled.
Brian swallowed as his eyes travelled the length of her body and back up to her face. He nodded, “Erm, great outfit. You should wear that the next time you go out!” he joked.
Mandy laughed, “Yeah I might do. But with tights on!” she joked back.
Brian smiled, “Good idea. Listen. I am making myself some toast. Do you want some?” he offered.
Mandy shook her head, “NO thanks Bri. I am gonna measure the curtains now and get started on them tonight!”
Brian smiled and nodded. He walked away and Mandy walked to her room. She put her her house clothes on, a t-shirt and short shorts, grabbed the material and walked downstairs with all her stuff. She lay the material on the floor as she crawled on all fours on it, measuring it carefully. Brian walked in from the kitchen and saw her on all fours on the floor. A very erotic image popped into his head, and his eyes could not be removed from her bum with those revealing shorts. He shook his head and sighed, “God living with her is going to be a lot more difficult that what I thought!” he thought to himself, He sighed and sat on the sofa as he munched on his toast. Mandy looked at him and smiled.
“Nice material!” he smiled as he chewed on his toast.
Mandy crawled along the yellow and orange material and snipped at the unwanted bits.
“Thanks. I wanted some nice warm colours for my room!” she smiled.
Brian smiled and nodded, “What colour are you painting the walls?”
“Yellow!” smiled Mandy, “And my duvet cover is the same pattern as this. I am making it too!” she smiled as she put the pins on the material as she folded the hem.
“Do you ALWAYS make your own bed wear?” he watched her, fascinated by her hard work, “Isn’t it just easier to buy the whole bed set?”
Mandy shrugged, “I already said earlier, I normally don’t like what they have, so I make my own. It’s not that hard, really. It’ll be done by tomorrow!”
Brian smiled, “Seems too much like hard work!”
Mandy grabbed the last pin from her mouth and pinned it on the hem. When it was ready, she got the other piece of material and lay it on the floor too, to repeat what she had just done on the first one.
“Now what are you doing?” he chuckled.
“Curtains are ready to be sewn tomorrow. Now it’s the duvet and pillow cases!” she grinned.
Brian watched, still in fascination as she pinned everything and got it ready. When she was done, she folded the material and put it back in the bag.
“So you’re playing football tomorrow huh?” she smiled.
Brian smiled and nodded, “Yup. Me and some guys from work form a team and we’re in this club. We play most Saturdays!”
Mandy just smiled and nodded.
“So, do you have any plans for tomorrow, apart from doing all this stuff for your room?” he asked.
Mandy shrugged, “This is pretty much all I am doing tomorrow!”
Brian smiled and helped her tidy up, “How about we hit a club tomorrow? We had a really good time the last time we did that!” he laughed.
“Yeah, and also a big argument the day after!” she frowned.
“Yeah, but that won’t happen this time, coz I know where I stand. Come on, we both need one. We’ve worked hard enough all week. Let’s treat ourselves!” he pleaded.
Mandy smiled, “We’ll see how tired I am tomorrow after decorating my room, ok?”
Brian smiled and nodded, “Great.”

chapter 52

Mark shook Brian gently, but Brian just stirred and turned his head the other way. Mark sighed and shook him again, “Brian, mate. It’s time to get up!” he whispered.
“No, it’s too early!” mumbled Brian sleepily.
“Bri, you have to go home, buddy. Come on!” insisted Mark, as he continued prodding him with his finger.
Hearing the word home, Brian finally opened his eyes and squinted at Mark, trying to get into focus. Mark laughed.
“Welcome to the land of the living. Hope you had a safe landing!” he chuckled.
Brian looked at him and saw Mark nudging his head down towards Mandy. Brian looked down, noticing the weight on his chest and saw Mandy fast asleep against it. He nudged her slightly, “Mandz…” he whispered.
“Awww don’t wake her up!” scolded Mark, “Let the poor girl sleep!”
“She’s coming home with me!” Croaked Brian, sitting up straight.
All this movements woke Mandy up. she opened her eyes and saw everyone staring at her. She then looked up at Brian, totally confused.
“Top of the morning to ye!” he grinned at her.
“OH god, did we sleep right through?” she mumbled.
“Yeah. It is 8 o’clock in the morning, and me and Fina just got home.” Joked Mark.
“What?” shrieked, Mandy, bolting upright.
Brian chuckled and shook his head.
“Only messing. Fina and I just got back and found you both asleep!”
“Both of us?” asked Mandy, now looking at Brian.
“Sorry babe. I couldn’t keep my eyes open anymore!” he smirked.
Mandy smiled, “What’s the time?”
“Midnight!” smiled Fina, walking into the living room.
Mandy looked at her and smiled, “Enjoy yourself?”
“Yeah, it was great. Felt so good to go out again and be on our own!” she smiled, “Thanks for looking after the kids!”
“No problem!” smiled Mandy, “Anytime you need a baby sitter, just give me a call!”
Fina smiled and nodded, “Were they ok?”
“Yeah, they were fine!” smiled Mandy, “Emma woke up once, but she just needed a cuddle. She fell asleep straight away as soon as I picked her up and sang to her. Tammy didn’t want to go to bed, but thanks to black beauty here, she went up without a fuss!” she chuckled.
Brian looked at her and nudged her playfully.
Fina smiled and nodded. Mark stared at Brian.
“What did you do? Force a couple of whiskey’s down her throat?” he gasped.
Brian looked at him shocked, “God no. What do you take me for?”
Mark rolled his eyes, “I was only kidding Brian. Jeez!”
Brian stared at him and blinked, “Well, I didn’t make her drink whiskey…I just banged her on the head with a club when the vodka shots didn’t work!” his shocked look turned to one of mock.
Mandy laughed loudly and shook her head. Mark chuckled, “That’s ok then!”
“Guys. That’s my daughter you are talking about here!” scolded Fina. She looked at Mark, “You should be ashamed of yourself, making fun of your own daughter!” she slapped him gently.
“Ah just relax Fina. She won’t remember it tomorrow!” Brian continued with his jokes.
Fina finally snorted and shook her head, “Just go home before I beat you over the head with a club. It’s too late in the night for jokes!”
Brian grinned and stood up. He then looked at Mandy and smiled, “Ready?”
Fina looked at her and then at Brian, “What for?”
“OH, I am moving back into Brian’s!” explained Mandy.
“Tonight?” shrieked Fina.
“Well, yeah!” smiled Mandy, “I cannot live here forever and you two need your privacy! Especially tonight after having such a perfect evening!” she nudged her knowingly.
Fina blushed and laughed, “But you don’t have to leave tonight!”
Mandy shrugged with a smile, “No matter. I have my bags ready and everything!”
“OK then. But I don’t want you to feel that we want you to move out now!” smiled Fina.
“Course not!” smiled Mandy, “I just thought I might as well do it now!”
Fina nodded, “Well, it was great having you here. Don’t be a stranger, eh?”
Mandy smiled and nodded, “Thanks very much for everything. I really do appreciate it!”
Brian looked at Mark and smiled, “How amazing would it be if Mandy and I got it together? Her and Fina seem to get on really well. We could go out as couples!” he fantasized.
Mark smiled and shook his head, “Don’t do this to yourself Bri!”
“I know!” sighed Brian, coming back to earth, “I know!”
He then looked at Mandy and smiled, “You ready then sleepyhead?”
Mandy nodded. She walked to the hall and picked up her bag, which Brian took away from her to carry. She smiled at him and then looked at Mark, “We’ll see you at work tomorrow then!”
Mark and Fina stood by the door as Mandy and Brian got into their cars and drove off. Fina and Mark walked back inside and locked it. Mark turned around and looked down at Fina. He wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her gently on the lips.
“Well, it’s just the 2 of us babe!” he smiled, planting lots of soft kisses on her lips.
Fina smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck, “Hmmm and what do you suggest?”
Mark grinned and continued placing soft kisses against her lips, “Well, how about we practice making another baby?”
Fina smiled and patted his chest, “I think that is a very good idea babe. As long as it is ONLY practising.”
Mark grinned as his kisses because more intense. He ended his episodes of kisses with one big kiss as the grand finale. His lips demanded hers to open. He stuck his tongue in her mouth, letting it frolick around with hers. He then picked her up and took her upstairs, where they started practising straight away.

Mandy and Brian finally arrived home. As soon as she got in, she walked into Kian’s old room and looked inside. She dumped her bag inside and put her hands on her hips, looking around.
“What do you think?” asked Brian behind her. It took all his strength not to wrap his arms around her waist. Instead, he kept them behind his back, to resist any temptation thrown his way.
“Well, it needs some work doing to it. The colours are all wrong. I need to make it more feminine. You lads don’t have a clue about decorating!” she grinned.
“OH god you are not going to fill up the living room with pretty flowers and pot pourri and girly stuff, are you?” he rolled his eyes and laughed.
Mandy looked at him and giggled, “I might!”
Brian laughed, “I can give you a hand with your room if you want!” he smiled.
Mandy turned around and looked at him, “That would be great. Thanks!”
Brian smiled, “Kian took his duvet away, but you can borrow my spare one until you get one…or you can keep mine if you want!”
“Nah it’s ok. Thanks anyway. I’ll buy one tomorrow. A nice thick one!” she smiled.
“Don’t get it too thick. It can get quite warm in here!” he advised.
“Yeah, but I never wear anything in bed anyway. I hate it. Keep feeling like I am being strangled!” she laughed.
Brian’s face totally changed. He gulped hard and tried to take every single picture of her naked away from his head. It was impossible though. The picture was already etched in his mind. He stared into space and sighed.
Mandy looked at him, “You ok?” she asked, giving him confused looks.
Brian shook his head and looked at her with a smile, “Yeah. I am fine. I suppose you’ll be going shopping tomorrow!”
Mandy grinned and nodded, “Need to get myself a duvet set and curtains. Plus paint and a few bits and bobs for the room!”
“You just love the shopping. Any excuse to hit the shops” he grinned.
Mandy giggled, “Yeah well. It’s second nature to me. I live for it!”
Brian smiled, “I am very aware of that, yes. Anyway Bri, I am very tired and I really want to go to sleep!”
“Very well. I’ll go and get you the bedding and the duvet.” He smiled, walking away to his room. Seconds later, he reappeared with everything in his arms. He dumped them down on the bed and looked at her. Mandy laughed.
“You didn’t have to put a cover on it!” she giggled.
“I wasn’t expecting you to sleep with a duvet without a cover!” he smiled.
Mandy shrugged, “Well, you were so right. Inside of you there really is a woman screaming to be let out!” she teased.
Brian looked at her and raised a brow, “I could prove you wrong, you know? And I know a very good way of proving it to you!”
Mandy blushed, “NO it’s ok. I believe you!” she quickly answered.
Brian laughed and kissed her cheek, “Goodnight babe. And sleep well!”
Mandy smiled, “Night Brian. See you in the morning!”

chapter 51

After Tammy had watched the whole dvd of Pingu, much to Brian’s protests, Mandy told her it was time for bed, much to Brian’s relief. Tammy looked at her and shook her head.
“No, no. I don’t want bed!” she defiantly folded her arms.
“Tammy, come on. It’s late!” smiled Mandy, checking the time, “Look, even the birdies are asleep!”
Brian folded his arms and looked at her as he grinned.
Tammy still shook her head and sat on the floor. Brian continued looking at Mandy and laughed, wondering how she was going to deal with this situation.
“Ok, Tammy. I am counting to 3 and I want you up in your bedroom and in your bed tucked up!” she warned, holding one finger up, “1…2…”
Tammy just stared at her and Mandy widened her eyes, “2 and a half…2 and 3 quarters…” she continued counting. Tammy still just stared at her. Mandy knew she was not going to budge.
“3…” sighed Mandy. She finally reached her target, even though she tried to prolong it as far as possible. Brian laughed when he saw Tammy had not budged. She sat on the floor grinning. Mandy rolled her eyes and looked at Brian, “Don’t laugh. She’ll only think she’s funny and she’ll get worse!”
Brian shook his head and got up, “You need to use a little bit of psychology with kids, Mandz. Observe!”
He got on all fours on the floor and looked at Tammy. Mandy looked at him curiously.
“Hey Tammy. Wanna ride on the horsey?” he grinned.
Tammy grinned and ran towards him. She straddled him on his back and kicked her legs about. Brian started crawling around the living room with Mandy watching and giggling. Especially when he made his horse sounds. A few seconds later, he picked Tammy in his arms, lifting her on his shoulders, “Uh oh. This horsey can walk on 2 legs. You’re in trouble now missy!” he galloped up the steps as Tammy screeched with laughter. Mandy followed him up and he turned to look at her.
“It’s ok love. You stay down here. I’ll take over!” he winked, as he turned around and continued walking up.
“I’ll get dinner served then!” she smiled.
When Tammy saw she was in bed, she looked at Brian and was about to move. Brian figured it was to get out, so he quickly moaned, “Oooh horsey’s very tired now after all that galloping.” He panted.
Tammy smiled, “I want horsey again!”
“no, no, no. Horsey needs to rest and sleep for a bit, so he can do it again tomorrow. Want to help horsey sleep?” he asked with a pout, “Horsey is scared of sleeping alone!”
Tammy grinned and nodded.
“Can horsey sleep in your bed?” he pouted again.
Tammy nodded and Brian grinned. He pulled the covers back and Tammy got inside. Brian tucked her in and he lay down beside her. Tammy cuddled up next to him, playing with his hair as she closed her eyes. Soon enough, she had fallen into a slumber. He lifted his head and smiled when he saw her. Quietly and carefully, he got up from the bed and made his way back downstairs. The table was already set. He walked into the kitchen and smiled.
“You know, Mark for being such a laid back guy, he sure has one hyper kid!” he laughed.
Mandy looked back and giggled, “Well, if it isn’t black beauty himself. Finally asleep, is she?”
Brian laughed and nodded, “And horsey’s hungry now after all that!”
Mandy smiled and picked up both dishes, “Well gee up then. Dinner is served!”
They both chatted about work and their school years as they ate.
“No way!” argued Brian, “Danny Cooper? He was the biggest nerd in our school!” he laughed.
“He was not!” laughed Mandy, “Just coz he was clever does not make him a nerd. And we only went out on two dates anyway!”
Brian laughed, “He was a computer nerd, Mandz.”
“Well, I had already tried the popular lads and realised they were not all that and that they only wanted one thing, so I went for a different approach!” she shrugged, looking at him through her lashes. She tried to suppress her laughter after seeing his face.
Brian put his knife and fork down on the plate and pushed it back on the table, “I seriously hope you are not talking about me!”
Mandy giggled, “Oooh do you have a guilty conscience then?”
Brian smiled and then shrugged, “Probably!”
Mandy laughed and shook her head. They stayed silent for a while before she looked at Brian again, “What about you. Had any steady girlfriends since leaving school?”
Brian bowed his head down and shook his head, “I don’t want to talk about it, Mandz!” he sighed.
“OH Bri. Come on. I told you about my guys. Now its your turn!” she laughed.
Brian shook his head, “Sorry babe. I…I really do not want to discuss this!”
Mandy sighed and shrugged, “Fair enough!”
“It’s just complicated ok?” he mumbled.
Mandy nodded and looked around in silence. She then looked at Brian and decided to change the subject, “You were great with Tammy tonight!”
Brian smiled and thanked her.
“I never had you as the kids kind of guy!” she smiled.
Brian shrugged, “I have 2 nieces, whom I see occasionally, like once a month. I know how to deal with them!”
Mandy smiled, “You’ll make a great dad one day Brian. You’ll make some lucky woman very happy!”
Brian looked away uncomfortably and just shrugged. Mandy smiled and got up to put the dirty plates in the washer. Brian remained in his seat, thinking about what she had just said. He desperately wanted that lucky woman to be her. He would just about give anything to father her future kids. He sighed and then got up to help her. He knew she was not ready for another relationship just yet and friendship was all she could offer for the time being. He walked into the kitchen and handed her his dirty plates.
“Mandz, I was thinking…” he sighed, placing the drinks back in the fridge.
“Oooh steady on, Bri!” teased Mandy, loading the washer up.
Brian smirked, “Don’t be cheeky. Anyway, Kian’s room us still empty and you must feel really awkward staying here!”
“I’m alright!” she shrugged, “But I guess it ain’t fair on Mark and Fina. They probably want their privacy!”
Brian nodded, “Well, how about you come back to mine and move into Kian’s room? Like you had originally planned?”
Mandy sighed and stared at him, “I dunno Bri. What if…Well…it wasn’t too long ago you said you had feelings for me, what if…”
Brian shook his head and interrupted her as he walked closer towards her, “Mandz. Those feelings are there, I admit, but I am fine with the friendship thing. I understand you don’t want to be involved with anyone for a while and I respect that, And quite honestly, I cannot say I blame you. But I do promise you one thing babe. I will not make any passes at you. I know you don’t want me in that way and I am fine with that. Honestly, babe, I am. I have accepted it and you’d really be doing me a huge favour if you moved in. I can hardly afford that place on my own. I really don’t want some weirdo moving in with me. Pleeeeeeeease!” he begged.
Mandy gave him unsure looks, “No passes, huh?”
Brian put his hand on his chest, “I promise. Not unless you want me to!” he grinned.
Mandy smiled and nodded, ”OK then. We’ll be friends, right?”
“Good friends!” smiled Brian.
“Very well. What I’ll do now is pack my bags…again…and I’ll move in tonight.” She smiled, putting the dishwasher on. Brian smiled and walked into the living room. An hour later, Mandy came back down with her bag. Brian looked at her.
“You sorted then?” he asked.
Mandy smiled and nodded.
“OK then. Come and sit down. I have found a dvd we could watch.” He smiled, patting the seat next to him. Mandy smiled and sat beside him, “What are we watching?”
“I have found American Pie Band camp stacked away in there!” he smiled, pressing play on the remote.
Mandy yawned as she relaxed back on the sofa.
“Tired?” he asked, raising a brow.
“Yeah, a bit!” she stifled another yawn.
Brian smiled and pulled her against him. Mandy lifted her head and looked at him, making him laugh, “Just relax babe. I just thought you needed o rest. Don’t worry. I am not making any moves on you ok? This is all purely platonic!”
Mandy smiled and relaxed her head against his chest as she watched the film. Brian smiled and kissed the top of her head.

Mark and Fina finally returned from their night out. They walked into the living room and stopped when they saw Brian and Mandy fast asleep on he sofa. Brian was half sitting, half laying down with his head back, and his mouth open. He had his arms around Mandy, who had one hand on his chest, just next to her head and the other hand on his leg.
Fina smiled and looked at Mark, “makes you heart break, doesn’t it?”
Mark laughed and kissed his wife, “Think we should leave them here like this tonight?”
Fina laughed and shook her head, “No. He’ll only wake up with a very sore neck and her with a bad back. You wake them up. I’ll go and see the kids!”

chapter 50

After work, Mandy got to Fina’s house.
“Hey!” she smiled, smelling the delicious odours wafting from the kitchen, “Something smells nice!”
“Yeah, didn’t Mark tell you? I am cooking dinner for Mark tonight!” she smiled.
“Oh, so that’s why Brian was asking me out for a drink later then!” she smiled, pretending she knew nothing about it.
“He’s taking you out then?” grinned Fina, with a glint of hope in her eyes.
“No!” shrugged Mandy, playing along. She didn’t look at her. She just sat down and looked at the paper, trying not to smile.
Fina looked at her confused, “Oh…right!”
“I told him I had other plans!” she smiled, turning the page on the paper.
Fina stared at her, “Right. And have you?” she asked.
“Have I what?” asked Mandy, still not looking at her.
“Have other plans!” answered Fina, trying hard not to sound too eager.
“Oh that!” laughed Mandy, “Yeah,. I do actually.”
Fina didn’t know whether to hug her or slap her for keeping her guessing.
“Anything nice?” she asked.
“Well, I am baby sitting your kids while you and Mark have a nice romantic evening out at Guiseppe’s!” she smiled.
“What?” shrieked Fina, “Since when?”
“Since I booked the table this morning. Now go up and have a bath or something. I’ll hold the fort down here!” she smiled, shooing her away.
“Mandy, I cannot ask you to look after the kids while I go off gallivanting with my husband!” she hasped.
“You are not asking me. I am insisting!” smiled Mandy, “Now shoo. Off you go!”
Fina smiled and took her apron off. She then stopped half way and looked back at Mandy, “What about the dinner I am making? It’s almost ready and everything!”
“Save it for tomorrow then!” laughed Mandy.
“I cannot. I mean, it’s not something you can refrigerate. It’s steak in mushroom sauce!” she sighed.
“Well then. Feed it to the dogs or something. I dunno!” giggled Mandy, “You have not had a night out since you were pregnant. You deserve one!”
Fina looked at her with narrow eyes, “How did you know that?”
Mandy smiled sheepishly, “I heard you talking to Mark as I walked to my room last night. Sorry I didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but I heard my name and I couldn’t help myself!” she blushed.
Fina looked at her. She suddenly stopped smiling how much had she heard, “OH erm, well, yeah, but…”
Mandy looked at her and saw a blush on her cheeks. She smiled and guessed what she was thinking.
“But I went back to my room when I felt that I was being a bit too nosy!” she grinned.
Fina smiled and sighed with relief. She looked worried again.
“Oh god, please don’t think we were trying to get rid of you or anything.” She panicked.
Mandy laughed and shook her head, “I thought no such thing. I understand you need your privacy and that’s why I am baby sitting tonight. Now will you go up and have that shower or bath already?”
Fina smiled, “Fine. But one more thing though. You eat that steak. In fact, why don’t you invite Brian over? You can both eat the steak”
She grinned, glad with the turnout of events. Maybe this would finally bring them together.
Mandy looked at her grinning, “Yeh, we’ll see about that eh? Now for the last time, GO!!!”
“Ok, ok I am going!” laughed Fina, walking away.
Mandy sat on the sofa, watching the tweenies on telly, which Tammy was watching. Mandy got up and sat next to her on the floor.
“So…Who’s your favourite then?” she asked the young girl, so engrossed on the TV.
“Fizz!” shrugged Tammy unenthusiastically.
“Really? Mine’s Jake” smiled Mandy, “He’s funny!”
Tammy looked at her and smiled. Her eyes creased as she grinned, just like her father’s.
“Do you know who else I like? Roly Mo from the Fimbles.” Grinned Mandy, “Now he’s cool!”
Tammy’s eyes lit up, “I love Roly Mo because he reads all these stories!”
“Cool!” giggled Mandy, crossing her legs like she was in school, “Do you like Pingu?”
Tammy grinned, nodded and crawled over to the dvd cabinet, where she pulled out a dvd of Pingu.
Mandy grinned, “I tell you what. Mummy and Daddy are going out tonight and guess what?”
Tammy just stared at her.
“I am going to stay here and look after you and Emma. Now what would you say, after we put Emma to bed, we both stay up and watch some Pingu?” she grinned.
“Yay!” she cheered, clapping excitedly, “Can we eat ice cream too?”
“Well, we’ll see what mummy and daddy have to say!” smiled Mandy, looking at the Pingu dvd cover Tammy had given her.
“Aren’t you a bit old to watch Pingu?” snorted someone behind them.
Mandy looked back quickly and saw Brian standing there, grinning. She quickly got up, “What are you doing here?” she gasped.
“Mark asked me round. Now here’s the deal Mandz. Him and Fina want a quiet night in and I knew you were lying earlier, saying you had other plans. So basically, Mark wants me to drag you out tonight so just go and get ready. I’ll wait!” he grinned, taking the direct approach.
Mandy shook her head, “I was not lying, Brian. I do have other plans!”
“Mandz, come on. They need their space!” he sighed.
“And they will get it!” smiled Mandy.
“You are coming out!” he ordered.
“No I am not!” she argued, folding her arms.
“Oh come on Mandz…” started Brian impatiently before Mark cut him off.
“Change of plans, mate. We’re going out instead while Mandy looks after the kids!” he grinned ad then looked at Mandy and smiled, “Thanks for offering, Mandz!”
Brian looked at Mandy who grinned and raised her eyebrows at him, “Lying was I?” she still had her arms folded.
Brian smiled and shook his head.
“Sorry mate!” laughed Mark, “But thanks anyway!”
Brian got up and nodded.
“hang on a sec. You could stay here and keep Mandy company!” he suggested with a smile.
Brian looked at Mark and then at Mandy from the corner of his eyes to see her reaction. He then turned his head to look at her. She just stared at him. The look on her face did not give him a clue as to what she thought about that, “Up to you babe!” she smiled.
“You sure you don’t mind?” he checked.
“It’s not my house!” she shrugged.
Brian sighed. She did not answer his question, “But would you mind me keeping you company?” he asked.
“No. Not at all!” she grinned, shaking her head.
He noticed the sincerity in her tone of voice and smiled, “One condition though!”
“What?” she asked curiously.
Brian grinned, “No Pingu once the kids are in bed!”
“And no funny business!” added Mark.
Mandy and Brian both looked at him with their eyebrows raised. Mark blushed and raised his brows, “So-rry!” he sighed walking back upstairs.
Tammy ran to Mandy and tapped her legs, “Mummy says I can eat ice cream!”
Mandy laughed, “Oh ok sweetheart! I’ll let mummy know when she comes down!”
“I am not lying!” she insisted, shaking her head.
“Oh honey, I am sure you’re not. But I need to let her know just so she doesn’t forget!” smiled Mandy. She saw from the look on her face that there was no element of truth in that. She laughed and shook her head.
An hour later, Mark and Fina walked down hand in hand, ready to go.
“You look nice, the both of ya!” smiled Mandy, standing in the hall.
Fina smiled, “Thanks. Now are you sure about this?”
Mandy sighed, “NO. Actually I am not!”
Fina’s smile faded.
“Go up and change, I don’t want to do this anymore!” she rolled her eyes and then smiled.
Fina was not sure how to take that, until she laughed, “Just go will ya?”
Fina smiled and grabbed Mark’s hand.
“Are you gonna be ok, Mandz?” asked Mark.
“No, I will probably poison your daughter and send her to bed at 1 in the morning while I just put my feet up and let her create havoc!” grinned Mandy.
Brian laughed loudly. Mark looked at him, smiled fakely and then looked at Mandy, “My you are sarky tonight!”
“Sorry. Yeah I’ll be fine! Just go!” she giggled.
“You sure?” he checked.
“Leave her alone, Mark. I am sure she knows what she’s doing. And besides, Brian is here!” sighed Fina.
“Yeah, that’s what worries me the most!” snorted Mark.
Brian stared at him, “I’ll have you know that kids love me!”
“Probably because you’re a big kid yourself!” chuckled Mark.
Mandy snorted and Brian quickly looked at her. She quickly pulled a straight face when he did and then laughed softly when he looked away again. Mark looked at her and chuckled.
“One more thing, Fina. Any rules on things, like, say…Ice cream?” asked Mandy, looking at Tammy from the corner of her eyes.
“Absolutely none allowed at this time of night. She will not sleep!” she specifically ordered.
Mandy looked at Fina and then at Tammy who just grinned and hid behind Brian’s leg, “You little liar!!! Just wait till I get you!” shrieked Mandy.
Tammy screeched as Mandy ran after her around the house.
“So you’re gonna be ok, yeah?” asked Mark, yet again.
Mandy did not answer. She caught Tammy and started tickling her as she screamed the place down.
Brian laughed, “We’ll be fine. Don’t worry. Just go and have fun!” he stood at the door and watched them leave.
“See ya later then!” called out Fina.
Mandy was still too busy tickling Tammy as they both walked out, leaving them to their own devices.

chapter 49

After that incident, Mandy no longer was in the mood for a party, so Mark took her home. They were now at his house. She had just finished washing her hair. She hated the smell of tobacco on her hair when she went to sleep. As she passed by Fina’s and Mark’s room, she could hear them talking. Hearing her name being mentioned, she stopped and listened.
“She’s well gutted. But then again, so is Brian. He knows she loves Nicky!” she heard Mark sigh.
“Yeah, but she’ll soon get over him!” shrugged Fina, rubbing her hand up and down his chest.

Mandy sighed and shook her head, “No I won’t!” she whispered. She then continued listening.

“So apart from all that hoohah, did you have a good time?” Fina asked.
“Yeah. It was a good night. Wish you could have been there though!” he sighed.
“Oh me too babe!” sighed Fina.
Mark sat down on the bed and took his shoes off, “When was the last time we both went out together babe?” he asked, removing his trousers and sitting on the bed to take his socks off.
“OH god. I don’t remember. But I do know it was before Emma was born. In fact, I was in the early stages of pregnancy with her!” she smiled, getting into bed and under the covers.
“I was thinking about taking you to dinner at Guiseppe’s!” he smiled, getting into bed and snuggling up next to her. Fina smiled and played with the coarse hair on his chest.
“What about the kids?” she asked.
“Well, we can bring them with us!” shrugged Mark.
Fina looked at him and raised herself slightly, leaning her hand on his chest and pushing herself up, “You have got to be kidding!”
“What?” he asked with a smile.
Fina sighed and lowered herself down, placing her head against his chest, “I can just see it now. Tammy running around with all her dolls, asking the other diners to play with her, and Emma screaming the place down because she is hungry. I don’t think so Mark!” she laughed.
Mark sighed and frowned, “Why can’t your mum look after them!” he whined.
Fina put her hand down, circling her fingers around his nipple and bit her lip, “You know how scared she gets looking after kids, Mark!”
“I don’t get why she would be so scared. It’s not like she’s never had kids before!” he moaned.
Fina smiled at him and grabbed his hand, “but they are not her own kids, baby. They are her grandkids. She’s just scared in case something happens to them!”
Mark shrugged and snuggled closer to her, “Oh well. It was a nice thought anyway!”
Fina smiled, turned to switch the lights off and rested her head against Mark’s chest again, “It was a lovely thought, Mark. Maybe I can make a nice romantic meal here” she smiled, kissing his lips gently.
Mark smiled and kissed her back, “Sounds good. We’ll put the kids to bed early and we’ll have a nice meal, just the 2 of us!” his kisses started getting more and more passionate.
“What about Mandy?” she mumbled in between kisses.
“I’ll get Brian to take her out!” he smiled against her lips, “Now that they are back on speaking terms!”
“Oh, they are talking again, are they?” she smiled.
Mark sighed and pulled away from her, “Yes!”
Fina smiled, “Ok then, let’s stop talking and let me give you a sneak preview on what’s for dessert tomorrow.” She growled seductively. Mark grinned and caressed her body as his kisses got more and more demanding.

Mandy sighed and walked back into her bedroom. She took her towel off and got into bed, deep in thought.
Morning arose and Mandy forced her eyes open after hearing the alarm. She moaned as she got up and turned it off.
“Whose brilliant idea was it to throw a party midweek when there is work the next day!” she moaned.
She sat up in bed, wincing as she felt the effects from the alcohol she had consumed. She rubbed her temples. It felt like a tiny person had been inside her head, hammering away, She sighed, got up and went to the bathroom to brush her teeth. She walked back to her room to get dressed and then walked down to the kitchen. She saw Mark and Fina both there.
“Morning!” she yawned.
Mark snorted, “God you look rough!”
Mandy stared at him and frowned, “Yeah and I feel it too. Tell me something. Where’s the logic in throwing a party in the middle of the week?” she moaned.
Mark chuckled as he bit into his toast, “That’s Simon for you!”
“He could have at least given us today off!” she mumbled, pouring water into her mug.
“Simon? Give us days off?” he gasped, “Hell will freeze over first!” he grinned, handing her 2 panadols.
“Thanks!” mumbled Mandy, throwing them in her mouth and washing them down with her coffee.
“Are you doing anything tonight Mandz?” asked Mark.
Fina looked at him and then at Mandy.
“Probably get an early night if I still feel this rough. Why?” she shrugged, knowing full well why.
Mark looked at Fina and she smiled at him. He looked back at Mandy and grinned, “OH, no reason!”
He made a mental note to speak to Brian later on. Mandy finished her coffee and grabbed her bag, “Well. See you guys later!”
“Bye Mandz, and have a good day!” wave Fina.
Mandy got to work and noticed Brian was already there. He smiled at her and she smiled at him. He got up and walked to her, “Hey. How are you feeling?” he grinned, sitting on her desk.
“Like someone is trying to crack my head open from inside!” she sighed, rolling her eyes.
“Yeah, I can imagine!” he laughed, playing with the stapler on her desk, “You almost drank the bar dry! Talk about taking advantage of the free drinks!”
“Yeah!” sighed Mandy, “Listen Bri…I just wanted to say thank for being a mate last night, ok? Thanks for making me see sense. I really appreciate it and sorry if I was rude to you!”
Brian smiled and nodded, “It’s not a problem, babe. I can imagine what you are going through at the moment. It cannot be easy. And I couldn’t let you make a fool out of yourself could I?”
Mandy shook her head with a smile, “Thanks!”
Simon walked in and looked at Brian, “Back to work McFadden! You’re slacking!” he said in his low gruff voice. Brian rolled his eyes at Mandy and got up from the desk.
“Speak to ya later, luv!” he smiled, rubbing her shoulder slightly as he walked off.
Mandy nodded and started answering the phone. When it got quiet, she rang a number and booked a table for 2 for later that night. Mark walked in and marched straight towards Brian.
“Brian, can you do me a favour?” he pleaded.
Brian looked at the pleading look in his eyes and laughed, “Good morning to you too Feehily!” he smiled, “What can I do for you?”
“I need you to take Mandy out later on this evening” he begged.
“Oh yeah coz you really need to beg me to do that!” he chuckled.
Mark looked at him with a desperate look in his eyes.
Brian laughed and nodded, “Course. I’ll ask her though!”
Mark smiled with relief.
“what if she says no though?” asked Brian.
“Then convince her!” whined Brian, rolling his eyes.
“Fine, ok./ You just leave it to me!” smiled Brian, “Why you trying tog et rid of her though?”
“Me and Fina have this huge romantic dinner planned out at home, just us. We’re putting the kids to bed early and having some quality time together!” he grinned.
“Oooh having a dirty night eh?” teased Brian, nudging him jokingly.
Mark rolled his eyes, “you could call it that, yeah!” he grinned.
Brian saw Mandy walking into the copying room and followed her in. Mandy looked at him as he walked in and smiled, “You’ve got a long wait. I have got tons of copying to do!” she grinned, as she placed another paper in the photocopying compartment.
Brian smiled as he dug his hands into his pockets, “Actually, I just came to ask you something!”
“Go on!” she nodded, taking the paper out and replacing it with another one.
“Well, how do you fancy coming to the pub after work?” he asked.
“Ugh. I never want to see alcohol again. not after last night!” she retched.
“Oh, right!” he mumbled. He could see this was going to be harder than he had anticipated, “Ho about dinner then? I’ll pay!” he grinned insistently.
Mandy looked at him and sighed, “Brian, please don’t do this to me ok? I am just not ready to start dating again. Please. I don’t wanna fall out with you again over this!”
“Oh. I just meant as friends!” he quickly said, “Only friends! We can do that, right? That’s not against the rules, is it?” he smiled.
“Sorry Bri. I really wish I could, but…I have other plans!” she smiled, putting a fresh stack of paper in the paper drawer.
“You do?” he shrieked.
“Is that so surprising?” she asked, raising a brow.
“Well, no, not at all. But I thought you said you weren’t ready to start dating!” he asked confused.
Mandy just looked at him, “Who said anything about dating?” she asked confused.
Brian sighed and shook his head, “Maybe another day then, yeah?”
Mandy smiled and nodded. Brian smiled weakly and walked out. Mark was waiting for him by his desk, chewing on his nails.
“Well?” he asked impatiently.
“She said she already has other plans!” sighed Brian, clearly disappointed.
“Plans? What plans?” asked Mark confused.
Brian shrugged, “Dunno. That’s what I would like to know too!”