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Three Lives, Five people

By: HunterShambles



All characters in this story are eighteen or over and above the age of consent, sex is entered into willingly and is consensual. English (UK) is the prevalent language, if the spellings arse, mum or colour offend you, this is not the story for you.

Happy reading.

*****

"1379281 Johnson P D." 

Peter Johnson stood by the entrance to his cell, the door bolted back as per regulations. He held between his arms the bedding material from his bunk. An Officer approached and checked the ID number on his shirt.

"Okay Johnson, follow me, speak to no one, acknowledge no one, understand!"

"Yes Sir!" Peter said automatically, following in the wake of the man, eyes front, acknowledging no one.

"Nonce!"

"Pervert!"

"Kiddy Fiddler!"

"We'll get you you fucking tosser!"

"You're dead meat Johnson!"

A stream of abuse followed him. Whispered or shouted from the line of inmates watching his departure. A stream of spittle hit his back, he ignored it. An Officer stood between two sets of men, he watched but did nothing. Peter walked quickly six steps behind his man, the exit door to the block getting nearer. A huge thuggish form stepped forward, the Officer looked over his shoulder,

"Jenkins, back away, I've a new baton I'm itching to use, don't tempt me!"

The tone was neutral, matter of fact, a warning that the speaker really meant what he said. The shape moved away, muttering loudly.

They passed through the exit door, unlocked from the other side and re-locked as Peter stepped in to the next area, a three story vestibule with huge glassed windows high up. A long low corridor stood at ninety degrees to them, the Officer turned and walked quickly along the passage between the narrow tile lined walls. He stopped at a door, knocked perfunctorily and opened it. 

Stepping aside he pushed Peter Johnson in. A long L shaped counter took up the the front third of the room, behind it racks of bedding and clothing stood. Some in plastic bags, others neatly folded in size order. The Officer behind the counter took the bedding from Peter and threw it into a large wheeled laundry basket.

"Number and name," he intoned bending to an old ledger worn and leather bound.

"1379281 Johnson P D." Peter repeated by rote. 

The Officer checked the pages, found the entry and scrawled the date and turned the book round, Peter took the proffered pen and signed in the space indicated. The Officer walked to the racks, mouthing the number to himself. Selecting a plastic bag he returned to Peter,

"Change!" he barked.

Peter looked at him, he looked back at Peter quizzically.

"Change!" he repeated.

Peter pulled off his issue uniform and stood naked, the Officer pushed the bag towards him. Inside cleaned and pressed were the clothes he had worn on entry, his pants, trousers, socks, shirt, shoes and tie all there. He dressed quickly. The Officer ticking the ledger and closing it, nodded at him as he turned away.

"This way Mr Johnson," the first Officer said, stressing the first use of the word Mr in five years.

Peter turned and grinned. Outside they crossed to a door opposite. Inside a Doctor examined him perfunctorily, asked a few questions, ticked a form and signed it. He passed the clipboard to Peter, who signed in the box under his name and dated it.

The Officer, eased him out, a hand on his elbow, they approached a reception area. A final check of his ID, then the Admissions Officer opened a small sealed envelope and tipped out Peter's worldly possessions. His watch, wedding ring, wallet and Parker pen slithered out into the light. Peter collected them up and distributed them about his suit, winding his watch and slipping it on his right wrist, checking the time on the clock behind the Admissions Officer. As for the wedding ring, he tossed it a couple of times as if weighing up his options and then dropped it into his pocket. 

The Officer then opened a safe and extracted a leather purse, he emptied that onto the counter, credit cards, out of date, sixty pounds in ten pound notes, four pounds eighty seven pence in loose change. Peter signed again. they moved to the exit.

The first Officer stepped back, pulling Peter with him and signaled to the door keeper, the wicket gate in the large double doors opened and Peter stepped out of prison. Peter took a deep breath of fresh air, or at least air not tainted by the smells of the prison. A horn honked and a man in a suit stepped out of a blue Vauxhall Insignia, waving at him. Peter trudged over to the man, as he recognised his solicitor he grinned. They shook hands and Peter moved to sit in the passenger side front seat.

"Alright Pete, how are you doing?"

"Harry, I'm a lot better for seeing you, thanks for everything, I owe you."

"Oh don't worry, my bill's on it's way! Only joking mate, she's gonna pay for this, trust me."

"Thanks Harry, can I go home? Or is she still there?"

"No, at this moment your ex-wife is in custody charged with perverting the course of justice, perjury and aggravated assault."

"Assault?"

"Man she went ballistic when the fuzz arrived and shattered a coppers jaw when they tried to take her, took eight of them to subdue her."

"Jesus!"

"You were lucky mate, the things she said she'd do to you, what a potty mouth, absolute filth."

"Uh,Huh! So what's the SP then where do we go from here?"

Harry, whilst driving, reached into his jacket and tossed keys into Peter's lap. 

"House keys, go home, get some shut eye, see me tomorrow, about eleven thirty, I'll make sure the times free, no worries."

"Cheers, I'm looking forward to a beer and a chicken dinner, and walking around unguarded, going into any room I fancy being in. No screws, no nutters, no mentalers, fuck it's been a long while."

"Want me to drop you outside Sainsbury's, so you can do a shop?"

"Yes that would be good. Does this stuff still work," he grinned and held up the notes he'd been given.

"Well up to this morning when I bought breakfast, yes it still seems to be acceptable. Here," Harry passed a bundle of notes to Peter.

"Take that on account, I'll deduct it from your winnings."

"Cheers ears," Peter riffled the notes and looked at Harry, " fuck me, there's about six hundred quid here!"

"Might take a week or two for your bank to sort out your cards, so this is to tide you over, let me know if you need more of those beer vouchers, it's all going on her bill."

After Harry dropped him off Peter did some shopping and spent an hour in his bank sorting his credit and debit cards out, then caught a taxi home. 

Inside the apartment, he saw the hasty signs of departure. After putting the shopping away Peter began to gather the last of his wife's possessions and place them haphazardly into plastic sacks. He swept her cosmetics cheerfully into the bin, then emptied it into a bag of clothing. He tied each bag off and left it by the front door. He popped the top off a bottle of bitter and took a deep draught.

"Ahhh! that hit the spot," he said, wiping the back of his hand across his lips. 

He sat in a chair and looked at his old marital home. After five years inside it still looked bright and airy. Probably, he thought, due to the dingy ten by twelve he's spent the last five years in. The doorbell rang and he raised an eyebrow, who knew he was back? He ambled over to the entrance and swung the door open. His face dropped, he looked like he'd seen a ghost.

"Fucking hell! Laura, well well, I never thought I'd see you again, what the fuck do you want?"

"Hallo Daddy, can I come in?"

"Are you kidding, where's the film crew or your mother. She gonna leap out on us again?" Peter looked anxiously past her shoulder, watching for the tell tale signs of an ambush.

"Dad! I didn't know a thing about that! Honestly, I never knew. The Bitch turned my life upside down too." she spat out.

"Okay, five minutes, come in."

Peter walked away from the door, which she pushed shut behind her. He sat in his favourite chair and eyed her up and down. Still looking fit at twenty three he thought. She had taken her coat off and the T-shirt she wore accentuated the swell of her firm breasts, the nipples poking out, showed she was braless. Her skirt was short and flared, showing off her long legs.

"Can I get a drink?"

"Beer in the kitchen, dunno what's in the cupboard. If it's tea you're after, I'm not sure if there's any."

"Fuck tea, I need something much stronger!" With her head bent into the cupboard, Peter looked up at her long slim legs disappearing into the gloom of her skirt. 

"Ahah!"

Peter jumped slightly thinking she'd seem his eyes on the skirt straightened across her arse. She stood with a bottle of Scotch in her hand. From the small silver salver on top of the low level unit she took a shot glass and poured herself a very large sized drink.

"Fuck her and all who sail in her."

She raised the glass and gulped down half the liquid. Shaking her head vigorously as she swallowed, she let out a gasp, then up ending the glass finished the drink. Peter grinned and took another swig of his beer, watching her pour another stiff one.

"So, what now?"

"I guess an apology, I really had no idea what that bitch was going to do. She dropped me in the shit too, but not as badly as you. How was it?"

"Oh it was great, no really it was, I met some really interesting men and we went to pottery and flower arranging classes. There's a fully stocked library and a gym too. We had daily exercise and a weekly film, not to scabby as it goes. What the hell do you think it was like. I was in prison for sexual offences against a minor and incest, locked up with murderers, killers and feral scum. People who actually thought I was beneath them."

Peter's voice was rising and his face reddening. 

" I couldn't sleep properly in case someone decided to pay me a night time visit, the screws were very amenable to that, they despised me as much as the inmates. In the end I went on the wing with the other's, the Pedo's the rapists, the gropers and frotteurs. Banged up with sick kiddy-fiddlers doesn't leave you with a good feeling, trust me. You ought to know that I don't trust anyone now."

"I can understand, I'm so sorry Dad, really."

"Look Laura in the light of events, do you still think of me as your Dad?"

"Of course, who else would I call Dad?"

"Your biological father?"

"Fuck that! Finding him would take years anyway! Seems The Bitch was game for any cock she could lay her hands on. How come you never suspected Dad?"

"Because she was a confident, mendacious, cocksucking liar first class and I trusted and loved her completely."

Peter raised his beer bottle and finished the dark bitter liquid.

"That tasted bloody good I'm gonna have another, and another until I'm completely shitfaced."

"Mind if I join you?"

"Pull up that bottle and fall down."

She sat on the arm of his chair, he felt the warmth of her body as she snuggled against him.

"You're a bit fucking previous aren't you?"

"Dad, I love you, now we know the truth we can love each other properly, I want you in my life, do you want me in yours?"

Peter stood and walked to the kitchen, he reappeared with a another bottle and stood looking at her.

"So what are you proposing?"

She poured another drink, and raised the glass level with her eyes, winked and moved it to her lips.

"How about I stay over tonight?"

"You are fucking joking, I got out at nine this morning, I don't intend to go back at nine tonight."

"But Dad, it's not wrong, I'm not your daughter, you were deceived by Mum. I can live with you openly, there's no shame, well apart from the fact your twenty five years older than me."

"Yeah, thanks for reminding me, anyway don't you want to play with boys your own age?"

"No why would I? Most of of them are tossers anyway. You have maturity and..."

"A criminal record?"

"No! A..."

"Dirty mind?"

"NO! A..."

Big Dick?"

"You wish!"

they laughed and Laura sat on Peter's lap.

"So Daddy, will you take me to bed tonight?"

"I might need to phone my solicitor first, just to check."

"OK. Well you could also check with him it's alright for me to suck your cock and do it doggie style too?"

Peter's hand holding the beer wobbled.

"Steady on young lady, I nearly spilt my beer." He grinned, she laughed. 

"Seriously Dad, I want to be with you. Having you in me, well, it was the best feeling ever. I felt so loved, so cared for, it wasn't just a shag, a quick fuck and away. I felt loved." She wriggled round and kissed his lips. 

He put his beer bottle down. Laura passed her glass, he put that down too. They kissed. Ten minutes later, he was trying to tear his shirt off as she shucked her blouse and skirt. As he pulled the shirt over his head, her hands unbuckled his belt and unzipped his trousers. Sitting he drew his socks off as she rolled her tights down. His pants joined her knickers on the floor as she uncinched her bra. 

They fell on each other and kissed, licked, squeezed, stroked and held the other. Finally surfacing for air, they made for the bedroom, falling onto the bed.

Laura began to stroke his cock as he licked and sucked her nipples, she threw her head back and moaned throatily. He grunted as her hand tightened on his cock. Sliding his hand down her smooth flat stomach onto her bare mons, his middle finger split her lips and slid into her moist centre. He flattened his palm and rubbed her clit between her lips, as his wiggling finger insinuated itself inside her. She spasmed and moaned, her pelvis jerking, her hand on his cock flexing, the other gripping his side. He pushed and squeezed and wriggled his finger, relaxing back he returned to her fold and slid a second finger in with the first. She rocked her head back and pushed against him. He trapped her clit again in her lips as his palm rubbed over her mons. 

With a scream she began to gyrate on his fingers, pushing, pulling, swaying pumping. He felt her vagina squeeze his fingers as her hand gripped his cock and pumped. They kissed, tongues dancing round each other. Her breathing became snatched, her motions spastic and involuntary. she screamed into his mouth and collapsed on the bed. Her legs twitched as she lay crying in the agony of her ecstasy. He held his fat erect cock and moved between her legs, pushing them apart. Reaching for her thighs he lifted her hips up and pushed himself into her. She responded by grabbing his hands and hauling herself onto him, burying his fat cock deep inside her.

With her arse in his lap and her legs around his back, he thrust into her, making up for the five year void in his life. She moaned and held him, he bent forward and licked her breasts, finding a nipple he sucked it in and fed on it. 

"YEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS, fuck me Daddy, fuck me hard, I missed you so much. Fill me up, come in me, make me yours again, Yesssssss. I'M CUUUUUUUUUUUUUMMMMMMMMMMMMMMING. DAAAAAAAAAAAADDDDDDDDDDDDDDYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY."

Her frenzied thrusting and her vagina's constant pulling took him over the edge, she milked him dry, sucking the gobs of spunk from his cock, until he was pushing and emitting nothing, His balls, ached and he fell back exhausted.

They awoke later, much later, sweat stained and aching, he grinned, she smiled, they embraced and kissed lazily.

"You gonna buy me dinner then?" 

"Oh so that's what this was, a dinner fuck."

"Well usually it's dinner then a fuck, but hey you'll get the idea eventually."

"Cheeky cow, OK, you're on, we'll go out to dinner. Anywhere in mind?"

"The Dorchester, The Ritz, The Savoy?"

"Chaz Angel's Pie and Mash Palace?"

"I don't think so Daddy."

"OK, seriously, how about that Italian place, Franchetti's, by the Station."

"Better. OK yeah, that'll do."

"So I guess we better wash up and go, I'll phone ahead and book a table."

"Is that The Bitch's stuff in the bags?"

"Yeah why?"

"Well as she's not going to have the opportunity to wear them for a few years I thought I could pick through them and find something appropriate."

"Yeah go for it, mind you I just scrunched them up, so they might be a little creased."

"Now here's a little trick from a seasoned traveler, find a hanger for it, stick that in the bathroom on the coat hook behind the door and presto the steam will make the creases fall out."

"You genius, will it work for trousers and shirts?"

"Don't see why not. go for it."

Later they sat in the Restaurant and talked after a superb meal. Laura's mobile rang she answered, grinned and passed it to Peter,

"It's Harry, said he thought I'd know where you were."

Peter grinned and held his hand out.

"Hallo Harry, what can I do for you? What?.. sorry I can't hear you, hang on I'll go outside."

Mouthing sorry to Laura he stepped outside and twisted round, moving to the edge of the pavement, trying to get a better signal.

"Harry yes, I've got four bars now, what's the probl..."

The phone fell to the floor as two burly Police Officers, stepped either side of him and pulled his arms round his back. They steered him towards a patrol car, where he was handcuffed and pushed into the back seat. Laura came out attracted by the flashing lights. Stooping to pick up her phone she shouted at Harry.

"Harry, it's Laura, the cops have arrested Dad again, no! Wait."

She ran to the car as the cop took his hat off and sat in the drivers seat.

"Excuse me where are you taking my Dad?"

"Duke Street, but you won't be able to talk to him for a while, he'll be helping us with our inquiries." 

He grinned and slammed the door. Pulling on his seat belt he spun away from the kerb, a burst from the siren stopping cars around him. The car sped off lights and siren disturbing the peaceful rumble of traffic.

"Harry they're taking him to Duke Street and they say he'll be helping them with their inquiries and isn't contactable. Yes OK, I'll wait for you. I better go and pay the bill before I get arrested too. OK Fifteen minutes."

Laura went back in and apologised, noting the waiter hovering by the door. She retrieved their coats and her bag, paid and went to wait outside. Five minutes later a familiar blue Insignia pulled up. She walked to the passenger side and slid in, noting Harry's eyes on her legs as her dress slid up to her thighs. 

"Eyes on the road perver, or I'll tell Dad."

"Sorry, but you look fantastic, right let's go spring your old man."

The drove steadily to the Police Station, parking in a spot reserved for the duty solicitor. As they got out Harry slid a professional looking card onto the dashboard. Outside the car Laura read,

Metropolitan Police, Duty Solicitor, On Call.

She grinned at Harry who shrugged and led her towards the entrance.

The desk Sergeant frowned and looked at them.

"Harry Fowles what brings an old bugger like you into my Station at this late hour?"

"George, how are you, the wife and kids okay?"

The Sergeant grinned and nodded, "Fair to middling, yours?"

Laura looked at Harry, her expression saying, "You're allowed to breed?"

"Fine George, all tucked up and cozy in bed, which is where I should be, except you've arrested one of my clients by mistake."

"Harry, they all say that, what's his name?"

"Peter Johnson, arrested by a couple of your woodentops outside a restaurant in Station Street not twenty minutes ago."

"We were having a quiet meal when they descended on him and dragged him off, for no reason."

"And you would be, miss?"

"Laura Johnson, he's my Father."

"Right, OK, well Mr Johnson has been detained on some rather serious charges, which will require him to remain here overnight until we can get a senior detective to interview him."

"I wish to see my client, and I'd like to know what he's been charged with?"


Three Lives, Five people



"Hmm, I can give you fifteen minutes in an hour or so. He's been detained on suspicion of involvement in money laundering and drugs dealing."

"Fucking difficult as he's been inside for the last five years!"

Laura's voice rang out around the small reception area. She stood hands on hips and fumed.

"I would ask you to moderate your language and lower your voice young lady."

George spoke quietly but firmly, Harry raised his hands in a calming gesture, palms flat towards both of them.

"Sorry George, but Laura's a bit upset, as any child would be if their parent were snatched away from them on a public street. George please consider this." Harry bent towards the man behind the counter.

"My client was released from prison after five years inside this morning, he's being pardoned following an appeal which found him wholly innocent of all charges. Now my suspicion is that the new charges are the result of interviews with his ex-wife, following her arrest on a number of counts relating to her evidence in his trial and the assault of that poor constable. If this is so, I would suggest she's acting out of revenge."

He nodded at the Sergeant to ensure he was following Harry's train of thought.

"Now if this is the case, I would expect my client to instigate an action, for false arrest, unlawful imprisonment and if I don't get to see him soon, failure to observe due process. Are we clear George?"

"Crystal! Harry, give me two minutes," he winked and disappeared to the back of the office. 

He picked up a phone and pressed the keypad four times, paused then spoke with his free hand shielding his mouth. Grinning he hung up and walked back.

"Have a seat Harry, Detective Constable Roberts will be with you in a tick."

Harry grinned at George and winked. Taking Laura's arm he walked her towards a row of cheap plastic chairs set against the longest wall. They sat and waited, then with a buzz a door opened and a foot followed by half a body appeared.

"Mr Fowles, would you come this way please." Harry and Laura walked towards the opened door. The neatly suited owner of the foot and half a body looked at Laura,

"Who's..."

"My Assistant Miss Jackson, I think you'll find it's all in order. Miss Jackson will be taking notes, is that acceptable to you?"

Harry gestured for DC "foot followed by half a body" to lead the way, Laura felt her lips twitch in the beginnings of a smile. The DC half make a noise then thinking better of it led the way to an interview room. Inside sat a sad faced, paunchy, middle aged man. He glanced up at the group as they entered and started to frown.

"What the.. Harry what's Johnson's daughter doing here?"

"I thought you said she was your Assistant?"the DC blurted out, reddening. Laura grinned and sat at the table.

"Detective Inspector Saunders, I might have known you were behind this little fracas, how are you Gordon?" Harry stretched his hand out, Saunders kept his arms crossed.

"Get off Fowles, why are you and she here, as if I couldn't guess. However, this time we got your boy bang to rights, nailed down, cast iron, solid."

He sat back in his chair and grinned as he folded his arms across his chest. Harry sat down next to Laura and grinned.

"Go on then Gordon spell it out?"

"We have witnesses who put your man bang in the middle of a drugs deal, we have a notebook with his handwriting detailing his deals and which include details of his customers. We picked him up with nearly six hundred quid in used notes and we are currently obtaining a warrant to search his premises as we believe he has been using it to launder the drugs money."

Saunders unfolded his arms and leaned towards Harry,

"How do you like them apples?"

"Okay, presumably you know Mr Johnson was released from prison this morning, after his successful appeal against his unlawful conviction. As an offender he would have had no ability to be present at any venue other than his cell or recreation areas. His business collapsed after his arrest, since he was a one man band. I suspect the notebook, if it even proves to be his, is a list of his former clients and their requirements in regard to his former business of Builder and Decorator. The cash was given to him by me, since he had no access to funds as his cards had expired. Your informant has given you duff information."

Harry grinned and spread his hands wide. Laura suppressed a giggle.

Saunders moved in for the kill,

"We have it on good authority that he was the jails top man in the drugs market, you want it, he got it."

"Ha, ha, haaaah, you are kidding me? Is that it? Is that what you've arrested him for. Dealing inside the jail? Any evidence? bags with his fingerprints on for example? No I thought not. This book, where was it discovered?"

"In his cell under the mattress, they searched the room after he left, following a tip off."

"How long afterwards?"

"After he left is all I know."

"Well you better check, because my Barrister will drive a coach and horses through this nonsense. Any longer than two minutes and I'll have you dancing to a different tune. My guess is you'll be back in uniform, directing traffic if you go ahead. This is so flimsy one sneeze would shred it. I want my boy now, I want him out and home, otherwise I will go straight to the papers and give then the whole thing. Your boss want that on the front page as he's dipping his soldiers in his soft boiled eggy tomorrow morning?"

"I have enough evidence to hold him for questioning..."

"Circumstantial, supposition, hearsay and lies, I warn you Gordon, I will not go easy on you with this. I'm off now to speak to the papers and get Peter's barrister fully acquainted with the case. See you in court."

"Wait, wait! Alright Harry, I will release him to you, but I want him back here at nine tomorrow, no later."

"Ahh, you already suspect this is a fit up don't you. I think I'll take Mr Johnson home and ask him to think carefully about who would do a thing like this. I suggest you check with the prison authorities to see what timescales we're talking in."

Harry stood and crossed his arms waiting,

"Roberts, get the custody sergeant to release Mr Johnson into his solicitor's care, and make sure he's aware he needs to be here tomorrow at nine sharp. No doubt Mr Fowles will be with him."

Saunders pushed back his chair and stormed out, Roberts ushered them along to the custody suite. Twenty minutes later the three of them walked out to Harry's car. Climbing in they sped off towards Peter's apartment. Harry dropped them off and said he's be back at eight fifteen tomorrow morning. they waved him off and went in to the block, and into the apartment.

After Peter had locked the door, Laura threw herself into his arms and sobbed. He held her tight, soothing her, kissing her, until she slowly stopped. They went through to the bedroom and undressed. Climbing into bed they clung to each other, kissing gently. Laura reached for his dick and gently enticed him to a full erection. Moving over him she slowly impaled herself, sinking down until her pussy was buried in his pubic hair. They moved languidly, touching, soothing, stroking, leaning down she kissed him. They held the kiss, their movements slow and easy.Peter reached up and cupped her breasts, she sighed into his mouth. 

Slowly they build up the pressure until she rocked on his cock and her vagina spasmed around him, he breathed out and pushed hard against her. She felt the spurts inside and relaxed, her orgasm washing over her. Peter rolled her sideways and they lay still joined, touching each other. Then they stilled and sleep came. Neither moved much during the night. His flaccid cock slipped out of her, she mumbled and pulled him closer. They clung to each other until the morning.

Waking they kissed and embraced. Showered and breakfasted. Peter chose some casual trousers and an open neck shirt. His battered old loafers sat at the back of his wardrobe and he sighed happily as they fitted onto his feet.

"Wow, look at you Mr Smart but Casual. Ready to face the world then?"

"Only if I know you'll be here when I get back."

"Here, no fear, I'm going with you, I am not letting you out of my sight. Every time I do you get arrested."

They laughed and embraced. The entryphone buzzed.

"Harry, we're on our way down."

"OK, I didn't want to come up anyway."

"Well you got your wish then, two minutes,"

"OK, I'll go sit in the car."

"No hang on, we're leaving now."

They put their coats on and walked down the short flight of steps to the ground floor. They saw Harry outside the glass entry doors and waved. He raised a hand slowly and turned away. Joining him outside, Peter slapped his back, Laura, reached up on tiptoe and kissed his cheek. He smiled and kissed her back.

"So ready for this, any ideas who might want to stitch you up in there?"

"Oh only about everyone else inside, including the screws."

"Right well let's see what Saunders of the Yard has to say this morning."

They drove to the Police Station, this time Harry bagged a visitors space and they went into reception.

Harry smiled at the day sergeant,

"Hallo Jim, we're here to see Mr Saunders, can you tell him Mr Johnson is here as requested?"

"Hallo Harry, yes, give me two ticks and I'll pop along and tell him you're here."

They sat on the plastic seats and waited. After twenty minutes Roberts appeared and motioned them in. As if he was expecting it he didn't raise any objections to Laura's following the two men through the security door. The interview room was the same and Saunders sat in the same position, he winced as he saw all three of them enter.

"Fucks sake, you hunt in packs now?"

"Oh Gordon, bad night or shit morning?" Harry asked solicitously.

"Funny, funny. Right well it seems as if our information was not entirely correct. On reviewing the situation it would appear that there is an unsubstantiated period between Mr Johnson leaving the cell and the search and recovery of the notebook which we were relying on. I am prepared therefore to admit that there are likely to be questions over the validity of the notebook and its recovery from the cell he vacated. I would also confirm that there are no signs of his fingerprints, or in fact anyone's fingerprints on the pages or cover of said notebook."

He paused and looked down at the table, 

"My inference is that the book was wiped clean before recovery. This tampering with evidence by persons unknown weakens the case against Mr Johnson. I would also suggest that you Mr Fowles are prepared to swear on oath that the funds in Mr Johnson's possession at the time of his arrest were provided by you as a means of enabling your client to buy goods and services pending the replacement of his out of date credit and debit cards."

"I would indeed Gordon, am I to assume therefore that you will now unarrest Mr Johnson and he will be free to leave without stigma or a stain on his name."

"I will naturally be releasing Mr Johnson forthwith and apologise for detaining him unnecessarily whilst our investigations continued. I trust that this will be the end of the matter and that we can shake hands and go our own ways."

"Happy to confirm my client accepts that the Police had a duty to investigate and have now ruled him out of their investigations Mr Saunders. I can also confirm my client will not pursue any action against the Police, believing that his exoneration is sufficient and your eloquence in your apology such that it would not be in anyone's interest to proceed. Thank you Mr Saunders for your prompt action and assistance."

Harry tapped his forehead with a finger in salute and rose, gesturing for Peter to do the same. They stood and left, Roberts trailing behind, until the door, where he smartly dodged in front and picked out the code, swinging the door open.

"Goodbye DC Roberts, thank you for your assistance." 

Harry walked out, followed by Peter, and Laura. Mischievously she kissed his cheek and whispered in his ear.

"Don't bother seeing us out any further, I know you were checking out my arse just now. You're such a naughty, naughty Policeman."

She skipped after Peter grinning and flipped the back of her skirt up revealing the tight blue knickers, stretched over the globes of her bottom, she heard the door shut behind her. They emerged into the sunlight and walked to Harry's car, climbing in they sped off towards Harry's office.

Harry sat behind his desk and nursed a large brandy, Peter sat with a glass of whiskey as did Laura.

"So Pete, what's your game plan now, you're a free man, although you will be a witness as Shelagh's trial, as will you Laura?"

"Hmm, well as the business is fucked and I don't really want to spend the next fifteen years rebuilding it, the answer is I don't know."

"You could get on a Government Retraining scheme, very keen on ex-offenders."

"But I'm not an ex-offender am I, I'm a free man with a full pardon."

"Ahh, but you're a wronged man and they love that, helping the disadvantaged. I can see the headline now, 'pardoned man makes good on Government grant'. Love it. Name in the papers, pictures, celebrity status the whole bit."

"Fuck that, doesn't appeal, I don't know. Laura?"

"I don't know, you have the apartment, there's some money in the joint account, I have a job."

"Nope! I am not living off you, that's right out. No there has to be something."

The Secretary buzzed through, Harry annoyed picked up the receiver,

"Carole, no calls means no ca... What, okay put it through.. Hallo this is Peter Johnson's solicitor, yes, okay, yes, of course, yes, yes, wait!"

Harry grinned and looked at Peter.

"It's the BBC want to know if you'd be prepared to go on the Breakfast Programme and talk about your case and the outcomes. Laura, they want you as well. Shall I tell then you'll do it?"

"Uhhh..."

"Harry! Dad and I will do it, when?"

"Wait! Hallo, when? Uh Huh! Right, Okay, fine, tomorrow at five thirty, cool."

He put the receiver down, grinning.

"You have a date with the Breakfast Programme tomorrow morning, a cab will pick you up at five thirty, you'll go on about seven thirty."

"Great, just what I wanted, nationwide exposure as a dick!"

"Dad! It won't be like that."

"Won't it? We'll see, Harry is there any more scotch?"

"Sure, here, take the bottle."

"Fucking magnanimous of you."

"You're my best client."

"I bet I'm you're only client." Peter grinned and raised his glass.

"Well the only one that pays." Harry grinned.

They laughed and drank, later Peter and Laura left to find a cab and lunch.

At five thirty the next morning the three of them stood outside the apartment block waiting for the cab. As the black cab came towards them, they moved to the edge of the pavement. The cab suddenly accelerated and mounted the pavement, Harry and Peter both grabbed Laura and threw her backwards against the low brick wall in front of the block, then launched themselves forward drawing the cab away from her. Winded she lay back watching as the cab driver tried to change direction to catch their sudden movement. 

Distracted he missed seeing the road sign on a steel pole just feet from where they stood. With a loud bang the bonnet of the cab hit the metal pole and wrapped itself round it. The driver unbelted smacked into the windscreen, his head bouncing back and forward hitting it again. He lay face across the wheel unmoving.

Laura had her phone out and was dialing the police. Peter and Harry lay back in the road, trying to get their breath. Cars had halted as the drivers watched the incident. One managed to video the scene playing out in front of him. Peter looked across at Laura, her hair mussed, tights torn and knees bleeding. She had her legs open and he could see up her skirt, he grinned. 

He waved, she nodded and closing her legs attempted to stand. Groggily she staggered upright, then jacknifed forward and vomited into the small grass area between the wall and the apartment block. Harry sat on his haunches dialing the BBC to advise that they would be delayed. Minutes later the first police cars started to arrive. Ten minutes later the cab driver was being strapped to a stretcher and was ready to be taken off to hospital with a police escort.

"That was the Beeb Pete, they know nothing about you appearing on telly this morning. Fuck, sorry mate, I set you up, I'm so sorry."

"It's alright mate, no worries, let's make sure Laura's okay."

"Sure, sorry, go on, I'll speak to the Cops." 

Harry patted Peter's back and watched him cross to the other ambulance that had arrived. He turned as DC Roberts appeared in a car that had drawn up next to the cab.

"Hello sunshine, you're up early, duty detective old son?"

Roberts yawned and nodded,

"Fifteen fucking minutes and I'd have been off home for bed, but no, you bastard, you had to have me dragged up here." He grinned.

"Sorry son, not planned I'm afraid, otherwise I'd have given you a bit more warning."

"Right then Mr Fowles, you better take me through it for the record."

"What's your first name son?"

"David, err, Dave."

"Well I'm Harry, best we get on first name terms I think, we're going to be seeing a lot of each other for the time being."

"Guess so..Harry,"

"That's the spirit Dave, now this is what happened."

Harry put his arm round Dave's shoulder and moved him off to one side. Peter went over to the ambulance, where Laura sat on the seat inside as a paramedic cleaned her knees and checked her vitals.

"How're you feeling?" she asked,

"Sore, you?"

"Sore, Harry's been set up, but why?"

"I can guess, and your mothers name keeps popping up,"

"But why?"

"Just because she's your mother, that's why. Harry's heard she got bail, but had to surrender her passport"

"Hell hath no fury..."

"Exactly, still apart from the cuts and bruises, no harm done."

"My arse will be black and blue, you going to kiss it better Daddy?"

"Minx, I'm sure this nice lady doesn't want to hear this at six in the morning."

"well it probably beats anything I can give her," chuckled the paramedic.

"There you go, approved by the NHS, kiss my delicate derriere," Laura grinned and pouted at him.

"He really your Dad? cos he's a lot fitter than mine," the paramedic grinned.

"Legally yes, biologically no thank God, 'cos he's an animal in the bedroo..."

"Enough, stop there, you good to go?"

"Awww Daddy, am I embarrassing you?"

"Yes and you know it."

"Awww, I'm weally werry sowwy, poor daddy," Laura rasped in a little girl voice.

"Enough Laura!" Peter barked out and blushed.

Laura laughed and leaned forward to grab his neck, drawing him forward for a kiss. The paramedic grinned and began to pack her equipment away.

"You're okay young lady, everything's fine, although those knees are going to hurt like crazy later. Rest, keep warm, keep them dry and clean, paracetamol as required, sign here please."

Laura took the proffered pen and signed in the place indicated, Handing the form and pen back she thanked the woman and stepped out of the ambulance. Peter helping her down the step by holding her hand to steady her. Harry arm round DC Roberts was in full flow, Robert's pen flying across and down his notebook. They grinned and kissed, walking over to Harry and the detective.Harry glanced up and waggled his hand in a come here gesture. They joined the two men and waited to tell their story.

Later they sat in the apartment a glass of scotch each and mulled over the morning's events. Laura shivered and left momentarily, returning with a cardigan, which she pulled close round her. Peter raised an eyebrow, she shook her head.

"It's alright Dad, just feeling a little cold, I'll be fine, don't fuss."

Harry looked from one to the other,




Three Lives, Five people



"I'll get off, you two need a bit of time alone, thanks for the scotch, see you both very soon."

Harry stood and as the other two rose up, he kissed Laura's cheeks and shook Peter's hand. Grabbing his coat off the chair he almost ran out of the apartment, and waving without looking back, he bounded down the stairs.

Laura leaned against Peter and her head rested on his chest. His arm came round her and he held her close. She shook and tears flowed silently, Peter held her and closed the door. Walking slowly he took her to the bed and picking her up lowered her down onto it, he slipped her cardigan off, unzipped her skirt and slid it down her legs. Pulling the cover over her, he tucked it under her chin. A soft kiss on her lips, a hand gently moving some strands of hair off her face, then he left. She felt loved, warm and safe, sleep came swiftly.

Peter found her mobile phone and flicked through her contacts, he found the number he wanted and dialed. Seconds later a familiar voice purred in his ear.

"We need to talk, come to the apartment, enough is enough." He clicked the call off and put the phone back in her handbag.

An hour later the doorbell rang and he walked over to the door and opened it. She walked in and grinned,

"Hallo Peter, how's life treating you?"

"Hallo Shelagh, do come in, I would say it's nice to see you, but it isn't, and this is strictly business."

"Hmmm, a masterful Peter, how quaint, almost tantalisingly sexual. How is my little whore daughter by the way?"

"Laura is sleeping in the bedroom, after your little theatrics this morning."

"Oh were you not on the Telly, on the local news, ex con and slutty daughter killed in a tragic accident."

"No thankfully, someone up there is protecting us. However, I need to make sure you don't harm Laura anymore, so what is it you want?"

They sat down, she handbag on the arm of the chair rifling through the contents,

"I don't want to go to jail,"

"I can't do anything about that, the Police are running this, it's a criminal investigation."

"You could put in a good word for me, you could ask the Police to tone down the charges, or you could just die."

Suddenly she pulled her hand out of her handbag and raised a nine inch steel knife from within. Peter tried to rise, but was too astounded to react quickly, his legs hampered by the low coffee table. Her hand slashed at him as his feet tried to propel him backwards. He felt the blade tear through his shirt and skin, feeling a hot stinging sensation. The wound was superficial, but drew blood, her arm swung back and round again, he pushed off from the sofa, just as her arm again swept across the line of his chest, this time she went deeper and he gasped as the tip raked across a rib and his sternum. 

He saw the world greying out and he pushed upwards, dragging the knife across the other side of his rib cage. The act of catching the rib, juddered the knife from her hands and Peter saw it fall away to the floor. He fell forward and grabbed the scotch glass on the coffee table swinging his arm back he caught her across the cheek, sending her backwards into the chair. 

Screaming she stood and lifted the coffee table, throwing it end over end, out of her way. Stooping for the knife she screamed in excitement, saliva dripping from the corner of her mouth. Standing triumphantly, breasts heaving, chest clawing in air, she stepped towards him as he began to lose consciousness. 

Shaking his head, trying to clear the fuzziness, he lunged toward her, seeing her lift the knife to drive down into his back. He faltered and dropped, her lunge missing him by millimeters, the sweep of her arm causing her to topple forwards, she shuffled her feet to remain upright and Peter kicked out at her leg. She shouted and spun backwards, still clutching the knife, but hobbling as the pain in her shin hit her brain. She screamed again and began a wild slashing motion with the knife, Peter crawling backwards across the floor.

The crashes and screams had awakened Laura and she appeared in the lounge doorway, seeing Peter and her mother, she raced for her mothers knife arm and kicked expertly at her wrist. The pain of the kick caused Shelagh to fall back, but she still clutched the knife,

"Fucking interfering bitch, get out of my way, that bastards going to die, back off you whore-bitch!"

Shelagh slashed at Laura who danced away and taunted her by stepping forward and backward into and out of range. Peter meanwhile was on his hands and knees, blood dripping from his wounds onto the floor. He still couldn't clear the fuzziness and he was of no help at all. Finally he fell forward and lay unconscious on the floor. Laura glanced at him and then returned her full concentration on her Mother.

"OK Mum, last chance, put the knife down."

"No! You're going with that bastard straight to hell, now die!"

Laura feinted left and stepped back, as Shelagh thrust forward, Laura kicked out and caught her in the solar plexus. Shelagh fought for air, gasping, her hands dropping as she desperately tried to breath. Laura stepped in and hit her with a closed fist to the chin, a straight right, as Shelagh's head whipped up Laura's left hand landed a haymaker on her jaw. Shelagh crumpled and hit the floor with an almighty thud, her lips kissing the wooden floor and knocking several teeth out. 

Lauara picked up the knife with a handkerchief and placed it on a chair away from her mother. Turning to Peter, she checked his pulse and breathing, dialed the emergency services and asked for the Police and an Ambulance.

Harry arrived a half an hour later as the medics finished strapping Peter onto a Stretcher, a second team were working on Shelagh. Laura was sitting with a WPC on the sofa. The WPC had an arm around Laura's shoulder, which was covered by the police officers jacket, as a colleague questioned her about the attack. Harry went and knelt by Laura, his hand on her knee, she covered it with hers. He looked anxiously at her, she smiled, thin lipped, her jaw trembling. Harry nodded and rose to go to the paramedics lifting Peter up on the stretcher, he glanced at the medic who shook his head. 

Harry glanced back at Peter, he was white, eyes closed, breathing raggedly. A pool of blood lay where he had been found. A drip had been set up and was attached to a thin bar fixed to the stretcher, a monitor lay by Peter's feet, wires disappearing under the blanket placed over him. A slightly irregular beep announced his heart rate.

The stretcher was carried out and the second stretcher was readied. This time straps looped over the inert body, and a policemen stood ready to follow the paramedics out. Harry sighed and returned to the sofa. 

The questions had finished, but Laura's hadn't,

"Harry is he alright? he'll be okay won't he?"

Harry nodded sympathetically and sat beside her, she put her arms round him and cried.

Two weeks later and Harry stood again with his arm round Laura, although today she was black clad. The wind swept through the cemetery and the clouds lowered as it prepared to rain again. The service had been short, free of any religious content and sparsely attended. There would be no wake following the interment. Laura held Harry as her world died too. Shelagh was currently in a secure psychiatric unit and the case against her had been suspended pending a full psychiatric assessment. The CPS regarded it unlikely that she would be in any position to stand trial. The likely outcome was that an order for her to be detained under the Mental Health Act would be obtained and for her to be held for as long as it was judged she was a danger to herself and others. 

Harry and Laura left in the large Daimler in which they and the coffin arrived. Laura returned to her own flat, unable to face the apartment where her father/ lover had died. Harry had formally requested Letters of Administration from the Public Guardian's Office and would arrange for the place to be deep cleaned and sold. He was applying to make Laura Peter's sole beneficiary and would handle the day to day detail. It would take several months to process, so Laura found a full time job to earn her keep.

A few weeks later Laura called at the apartment and hesitatingly entered, The place had been cleaned and was now spotless, if sterile. She wandered from room to room, noting the neatly stacked furniture and the empty beds. On and off this had been her home for nearly sixteen years, but it was just a set of rooms now. All traces of the family had been removed. She felt a tear in her eye as she waltzed through her memories, until that final scene, her mother, having attacked her father and was now in the process of trying to kill her. She remembered the anxious hours, days in ICU, Harry Fowles's calmness and rocklike faith in her fathers ability to recover.

She remembered the shock and soul destroying dread as the crash teams had worked their miracles trying to resuscitate and stabilise her father seven times but finally after five days failing that final time. Too much blood lost, too much shock in too little time, all had conspired against him. Meanwhile her mother was in a secure unit, recovering, having dental work to replace the teeth she had lost when Laura had sent her crashing to the floor. She would receive excellent medical care, whilst her husband would be laid in the cold wet earth. 

Laura gulped and let it go as the bitterness, anger and frustration all surged through her. She had berated herself time and again for the lapses she had made, but it was all to no avail, he was gone, her father, her best friend, her lover. Leaving she posted the key in the mail locker, leaving behind her innocence, her youth and her happiness.

Work had been a godsend, she had ploughed into it and in a way it had compensated for her loneliness. She made herself work exceptionally long hours, to avoid going home to her tiny flat, with no friends or neighbours to talk to. Offering to take on tasks for others, she became a workaholic. Living to work, she found she had a capacity to see through the clutter and her section had received considerable plaudits, as she ensured their commitment to timescales and deadlines were strictly observed. Her fastidiousness didn't go unnoticed and she found herself promoted. The new position meant familiarising herself with a different side of the organisation, but her will to work ensured she soon had the measure of the job.

Returning home one evening she was surprised to see Dave Roberts (the DC who had been the sidekick of the Inspector leading the investigation against her father and subsequent investigation into his death) sitting on the wall outside her block. She raised a quizzical eyebrow,

"DC Roberts, you here to harass me now?"

"No, no, just to update you on the case," he exclaimed, reddening rapidly.

"What's to update, my mother's a nutter and she killed my father." 

"Yeah, I know that but I came to see if you were okay and to let you know..." he faltered.

"Come on, spit it out, I can probably guess, the CPS have finally decided she's too ill to plead or stand trial. So they're now going to section her under the Mental Health Act!"

"Yeah, got it in one, sorry, we tried, but the head honcho said no, there is no realistic chance of a conviction."

He shrugged his shoulders and rose as if to go.

"Oh for God's sake, you've got a face like a smacked arse, do you want to come in for a coffee or a tea, and just that! I'm a million miles from wanting any kind of relationship, or even a quick shag but a friendly face would be welcome."

She smiled and punched his arm.

"I... I... never considered you would be, I knew you were different."

He said, the redness now enveloping the whole of his face. She found it oddly lovable.

"DC Roberts, I do believe you're embarrassed, I think you may have a thing for me." 

She leaned over and kissed his cheek, then dragged him through the doors into the vestibule. She opened her box and noted the mail.

"Oh one here from your office, don't suppose your Boss has written to me to tell me the same thing you have do you?" She grinned as she watched him wish the ground would open up beneath him.

They walked to the lift,

"Tell me Dave, it is Dave isn't it?"

He nodded and waited for her to enter the car before stepping in behind her. She pressed three and the doors closed.

"Dave why are you really here?"

"I can't get you out of my mind, you're just so beautiful."

He stopped and looked down, she touched his shoulder briefly.

"Dave, you're awfully sweet, but you must know that I have recently lost the only man I ever loved, now is not the right time to hit on me."

Smiling she lifted his chin with her finger tips.

"However, I do need a friend, someone to take me out of myself. At the moment all I have is work, work, work. I am becoming a very dull girl."

"I could do that, what do you like doing?"

"Okay that's a start, well I like... going to the theatre, films, concerts, I hate Opera but love Ballet, I read and I like to sing."

"Okay, well I like football, films, the theatre, reading and I've never been to an Opera or the Ballet, plus I have a voice that even my mother hates."

"So we have a good overlap on some things. How about we go see a show or a concert and take it from there?"

"Great, when, what do you fancy?"

"Next week, the West End, a show, dazzle me," she laughed and they left the lift as she found her keys.

She opened the door ushered him in and switched the lights on.

"Here we are home sweet hovel." She threw her keys into a bowl on a side table in the hall. 

Dave Roberts opened the first door on the left and walked into her lounge. Switching the lights on he saw a medium sized room, sparsely furnished, but very tidy, almost as if it were untouched. He couldn't see any signs that the room had been personlised, it was almost like a show home, but with older used furniture.

"Yeah I know, devoid of human habitation. I rarely use this room, usually either bed, bath or kitchen. Speaking of which, tea or coffee?"

"Neither thanks, I don't, but a squash drink or water would be fine."

"Are you non -alcoholic too? Never tried it? Sorry that was rude and uncalled for, I apologise."

"No, no need, but yes I am tea total but I enjoy a coffee now and then. I don't drink not for any other reason than I hate the taste and I don't like not being in control. Well not in an OCD manner, but I like to.. I don't know really, I don't want to make a fool of myself."

"Dave, we all do that sunshine. Me more than many. But I think you're an OK guy, so squash it will be. Splash of vodka."

"Really?"

"No only kidding."

"See I can make a fool of myself without alcohol, imagine what a prat I'd be with it."

"You're okay Davey boy. Sit, I'll be back."

Dave Roberts sat in the lounge, seeing a book on the coffee table he grabbed it and read the frontispiece, then the blurb on the rear. Historical faction, events known to have happened, actual people known to have been around at the time, the author had conjured up a story weaving their lives into the tale. He knew the authors name and that there were ongoing negotiations to bring the book to the stage or film, or at least that's what the arts pages suggested. Laura reappeared with a mug and a glass in her hands.

"Hope you don't want a biccy, my tins are empty."

"No this is fine, how's the book?" He nodded at the coffee table.

"Ohh! err, okay'ish, not finding it as readable as I imagined it would be. Quite a complex tale and although it's well told, not sure I'll last the course."

"OK, well can I have a read when you finish, or give up, whichever is first." he smiled and his face lit up. She smiled at him and lifted the cup to her lips, blowing gently.

"Take it now, see if you get any further than me. I read her other books, but somehow this is beyond me. So go on, take it, please it will be a relief not to have to plough on through it."

"You're certainly giving it a big build up, can't wait to start now."

They sat grinning, he finished his drink and stood,

"I should go, I've squandered enough of your time tonight. Thanks for talking with me, I've enjoyed it, even if you haven't. Can I have a contact number so I can arrange next week?"

She stood and held out her mobile,

"Top of the contacts page, it tells you the number, and don't go looking down the list."

He grinned and copied the number into his phone, taking his time. Finally he handed her phone back.

"I'll ring you in a day or so, is that okay?"

"Sure, I'm looking forward to it, g'night."

They were by her front door, he stepped in hugged her and kissed her cheek, she grinned and patted his back. He moved away and opened the door, looked back he half waved and pulled the door shut behind him. She stood grinning for several minutes before retreating to the lounge. Picking up his glass and her cup, she left turning the light off. Soon she locked up and went to bed.

Tuesday at work and her PA buzzed her,

"Dave on line four," she could hear the smile in her voice.

"Friend, acquaintance, no funny stuff OK?"

"Sure, your life, sounds nice though."

"He is and you're prying, line four got it."

Laughing she punched four and said hello.

"Hi Laura it's Dave. Do you fancy Kevin Spacey and Jeff Goldblum in Speed the Plow at the Old Vic, I know it's not West End but... Shall we say meet at six and eat, then see the show?"

"Bloody hell! Roberts that is damn impressive! 

Tickets for that are like snow in summer. That's a theatrical date, I like exotic food, as a teaser for you."

"Noted, and I know where to take you, it's just round the corner from the Theatre. Six o'clock outside the Old Vic then, wear a glam frock, see you."

And he was gone, no chat, just a mate confirming a meeting, she liked that, like her Dad, she thought. No that's not right don't compare or contrast, they were two different men. She frowned just as Polly her PA walked in.

"Problems with Mr Right?"

"He's not Mr Right, he's Mr Just-a-Friend-right-now, nosey. We're going to the theatre on Thursday, Kevin Spacey, Jeff Goldblum, Speed the Plow, can you believe it?"

"No way Jose! how did he manage that? He really fancy's you to do that. What does he do?"

"He's a policeman if you must know."

"Evenin' all, right let's be 'avin' you."

Polly pretended to be a policeman swinging a truncheon.

"They don't talk like that now, he's a good friend, and yes he fancy's me rotten I think, but not pushy, I like him."

"Like him or 'Like him'?"

"Polly I lost the love of my life about six months ago, Dave Roberts is a mate, endof, that's all, now out I have work to do, and so do you, out, out, out."

Laughing Polly left and Laura began to retrace her thoughts to before the call. She buried her nose in the screen and began to dissect the report in front of her. She had a niggle, something was wrong but she couldn't tease it out. She started again and after about five minutes she felt a tingle, there it was. She printed the page and walked out to her colleague. Explaining her feeling he looked at the report then turned to his screen. 

After a few keystrokes his screen changed, glancing at the report he typed again, frowned and nodded, she was right, he said, as usual. Pass it in front of Laura she'd spot the error, even if everyone else didn't. Laura grinned and returned to her desk. She responded to the reports author, explaining his error and asking him to recompile it and get it back to her asap. She began to tackle the pile in front of her and soon had the work flowing. 

At six thirty she felt unusually tired and left work. As she did her phone rang, Dave Roberts.

"Hi Laura, no panic, but I thought you might want to go for a drink?"




Three Lives, Five people



"Ha! But you don't drink! Nice try Mr Roberts, but no, I'm actually just leaving work, and I'm knackered. Maybe some other time, see you Thursday."

"Can't wait, see you Laura."

Thursday came and Laura worked her lunch hour as usual, and through to five thirty. Pushing her intercom button she heard Polly.

"Poll I'm going out tonight, so I'm closing up, can you fend off any calls til you go? Thanks Hun!"

Laura slipped along to the Ladies and changed, pulling on tights over her bare legs, then slipping into a three quarter length A Line dress. It flared slightly at the waist and ended just on her knees. Long sleeved it had a hint of a scoop at the front, but not enough to reveal any cleavage. She dabbed on a little eye liner and blusher. She pulled a lipstick from her purse and lightly highlighted her lips. The effect was to enhance her lips without making them dominate her face. She smiled into the mirror. The forecast was a dry evening with no or little wind. She threw a gold fringed pashmina around her shoulders, perfect.

As she emerged Polly walked past, her mouth dropped open. Laura couldn't resist,

"Close your mouth Polly, we are not a codfish!"

The line from Mary Poppins was one of her favourites.

"Laura, you look gorgeous, does he know what's in store for him? My God, you look stunning."

"Thanks, I hope he appreciates it too. Although not to the extent of drooling like a St Bernard."

She grinned and waved, walking to the lifts.

At six pm she stood in front of the theatre. A black cab drew up and Dave Roberts emerged and paid the fare. Turning his face cracked into an almighty grin.

"Well you scrub up nicely pet," he leaned in and kissed her cheek. 

Turning he crooked his elbow and smiled, Laura laughed and put her arm through his, feeling him adjust to hold her hand snugly in the crook of his arm.

"It's just round the corner, on the side of the theatre, saw it a few months ago and decided I'd try it the next time I came, so this is a good omen for me."

He led her down a side street and the glass fronted Turkish restaurant appeared at the junction. Turning in he gently maneuvered her in front. As the Maitre D' appeared he gave his name and then followed as they were led to a table in the window. With Laura seated he sat down. He wore casual trousers and loafers, an open necked shirt and a soft lambswool jumper slung over his shoulders.

"I didn't have a chance to say how handsome you look, I'm impressed DC Roberts, a plain clothed policeman, who has no plain clothes." She giggled, he smiled.

"Well Miss Johnson, I can see you dressed to impress and you may take it I am. You look stunning, I am suitably humble in your presence." 

The waiter appeared and they ordered drinks, she a gin and tonic, he mineral water. Raising their glasses, they touched them with a soft 'chink', then studied the menu. At her insistence he ordered for both of them and they relaxed with their drinks, totally at ease. Talk came easy, they chatted back and forth.

Soon the appetisers appeared, chicken and walnut salad, a variety of dips, flat bread, Lentil Kofta's and Leeks with lemon and currents. Presently the main dishes arrived, Baked Fish with Dill Butter and Raki, set off with roast tomatoes and pine nuts for her, Slow Roasted Lamb with Apples Poached in Pomegranate for him . They skipped dessert and went straight to the strong black Turkish coffee which rounded off the meal successfully for them. Outside the air had cooled but not so as to make it too cold. They wandered back to the theatre, where they took their seats in the Dress Circle exactly in the centre of the row.

"Roberts how did you manage this, at such short notice and on your salary?" she whispered.

"I could tell you, but then I'd have to kill you," he whispered back. 

She punched his arm and he grinned, handing her the programme he'd bought on their way in. Soon the lights dimmed and the play began, it was all she hoped for and more. The two superb actors sparking off each other, raising the hairs on the nape of her neck, the inside of the theatre was electric with excitement. At the end she stood with the others clapping and shouting, the air flooded with a huge wave of enthusiasm for the Actors. 

As they exited, Dave found a cab and ushered her in. they speed back across the river and wound their way back to her place. He kissed her cheek, saw her to her door then leapt back in the cab as she disappeared inside. she waved and went inside, exhausted but happy. Just tonight work seemed a world away.

On Sunday as she did her washing her entry phone buzzed, she picked it up.

"If that's you Roberts, you're wasting your time, I'm up to my armpits in suds and water."

"Aww, shame this triple decker ice cream is going to melt and be wasted."

"You bugger, alright, come up!" She grinned and pressed the door release. 

Two minutes later a muffled bang at the door announced his appearance. She opened the door and looked at the biggest ice cream cornet she had ever seen.

"Bloody hell how did you carry that?" she laughed and accepted the gift, taking a long lick round the bottom of the ice cream where it met the malted cone. She savoured the three flavours.

"How did you know which flavours to pick?"

"I'm a cop we never reveal our sources, sorry ma'am."

"Polly, it has to be. Polly is the only one who would know, I'll kill her tomorrow, you wait and see."

"Oh Good, I get to arrest you and read you your rights."

"Bastard!"

"Only doing my job ma'am."

"Shut up you idiot, come on, come through, you look positively guilty standing on the doorstep. What flavours have you got?"

"Rum and Raisen, Sticky Toffee and Fudge."

"Yuk! mine's better."

"Go on then giss us a taste?"

"No! you've got your own and I don't want to lick yours, so you don't get to lick mine."

She winked and he laughed, they walked to the kitchen and sat at the small counter.

"OK what are you doing here?"

"Well I thought I'd have an ice cream and then I thought wait, what about Laura! So I phoned Polly and she told me your favourite flavours and..."

"wait, wait, you phoned Polly?"

"Yeah!"

"How did you have Polly's number?"

"Confidential ma'am, not at liberty to say." He tapped the side of his nose with one finger.

"Dave Roberts tell me or you'll get more than a lick if I jam this cone in your face."

"That's issuing threats?"

"Three, Two, One," Laura upended the cornet, Dave sat back.

"OK, OK, I pinched it from your contacts, when I took your number."

"You rat, I told you not to look."

"Yeah, but she's such a great person..."

"To pump for information, seriously I'm a bit pissed with you for that!"

"Really? Sorry I..."

"Got you! Payback. By the way this is absolutely scrummy, thanks."

"You're very welcome Miss Johnson."

They finished their ice creams in silence.

Laura stood and pulled a glass from the cupboard.

"Drink?"

"Thanks, apple if you have it?"

"I bought one of everything just so I'd have something for you."

"Now that's what mates are for."

"So I'm now your mate then?"

"No you're special, a good friend, a beautiful perfect friend. No pressure."

"None perceived, I like you Dave, but, well, as you know I have history."

"I want to be your friend Laura, even if I can never be your man."

"You're cute Roberts, you're too nice, and I know so little about you."

"Ahh! I'm twenty nine, a Leo, I have a degree in History, my dad was a bobby for forty years and died two years after he retired. I still live at home with my mum, who really still does all my washing and ironing. I have a few mates, mostly in the force and I am wildly in love with a beautiful woman who scorns my advances and won't let me lick her cornet."

"Idiot! Does your mum really still do your washing?"

"Won't hear of me doing my own, banned from the kitchen, feeds me, makes my sandwiches, you name it she does it."

"How did you survive Uni?"

"I lived on pasta and sausages and went home every other weekend for food and to have my washing done."

"You wimp, I can't believe you still let your mother do your washing, you got it easy, do you pay her any rent?"

"No! why would I?"

"Duh! you lazy sod, your poor mum, I'd like to meet her and get her to throw you out."

"Actually I made it all up Laura, sorry I lied."

"Whaat?"

"I am twenty nine and a Leo. My Dad was a cop and died as I said, but I look after my mum. She's not well, had a stroke last year. We get carers come in four times a day, but otherwise I'm her carer."

"I don't know what to believe now, you're too bloody convincing Roberts. I'd like to meet your mum, tell her what a rat you are, a nice rat, but nevertheless a rat."

"I know, but the last part was the truth. I got my neighbour to look after mum so I could come out, but I have to get back soon. I'll give you a ring during the week, fancy a film this time?"

"Dave Roberts! Good job I know you're an honest bloke, yeah give me a ring and we'll decide on what."

"OK see you," he hugged her and kissed her cheek, then turned and left, leaving her with her thoughts. 

She stood biting her lip, trying to decide which part of his story, if any, was true. She gave up and plunged back into her washing and determined to finish it as quickly as she could, giving her the afternoon off. Two hours later, she sat in the lounge, swung her feet round and lay back on the sofa. As she drifted off she thought about Dave Roberts and a smile flickered over her face. She woke about half four the afternoon gone. Sighing she gathered herself up and went to take a long bath.

Work on Monday was a dour drab affair, she was head down all day, her lunch a sandwich at her desk. Polly replaced her coffee cup at regular intervals and soon it was five thirty. With plenty to do Laura ploughed on, eventually looking up at seven forty five and frowning. Bang goes the evening she thought, then tidied everything away, this was the last thing she did each evening, since the office had a clean desk policy. She found her bag, grabbed her coat and fled. At home she had a cup of soup from a packet and a crust of bread, before grabbing a wine glass, a bottle of Pinot Grigio and the tv remote. As she settled in her mobile rang, she grinned as she recognised Dave's number.

"Inspector Roberts, how are you?"

"Fair to middling m'lady, yourself."

"Crap day, just in, feet up, remote control and bottle of plonk."

"Ouch, punishing day then?"

"The pits, still shit happens, what can I do you for?"

"Thursday, still up for a movie night?"

"Course, what do you have in mind?"

"Do you like foreign films?"

"Love them, sub titles the whole bit, why?"

"They're showing 'Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown' at eleven at Flix in town, fancy that?"

"I love Almodovar, yes please. Meal before?"

"Sure, any preferences this week?"

"Surprise me?"

"OK, prepare to be surprised, pick you up at six fifteen?"

"Can you come for me at work?"

"Sure, can I meet the lovely Polly?"

"No, she's way too beautiful and she'll steal you away."

"I doubt it, but let's risk it."

"Tease,"

"Love you, miss you, Ciao!"

Click, the line hummed and buzzed. She clicked off and picked up the remote.

The next few days were a blur, as the work avalanched across her desk. Perversely she began to enjoy it and dived headlong into the pile, blasting off messages, setting up meetings and filing reports. Suddenly it was Thursday and Dave Roberts stood at her desk his arm round an obviously smitten Polly.

"Hi just came to say, we've decided to elope and run away to sea. It's been lovely knowing you and all that, I wish you all the best, meanwhile Poll and I are off to have carnival knowledge of each other."

"You mean carnal!"

"No carnival, it'll be a real circus, boom boom."

"Roberts you don't improve with keeping, I may have to reassess our friendship."

"I wish,"

"You wish, exactly, come on I'm ravenous, where we going?"

"Don't know, any suggestions lovely Poll?"

Polly blushed and wriggled free of Dave,and fled.

"You bugger, she'll have this all over the office by tomorrow," Laura grinned and kissed his cheek. Taking his arm she folded hers in it.

He smiled and bent to kiss her cheek, then walked her through the outer office to the lifts. In the lift she squeezed closer to him.

"Whooa, this is a change, falling for the old Roberts charm offensive at last?"

"Guess again, I'm cold, I should have bought a thicker coat, damn."

"Well you stay close to your uncle Dave and he'll share his warmth with you."

"Too kind young man, unless you have an ulterior motive."

"Would I?"

"You would, do you know how embarrassed Polly was?"

"Yeah, I'll phone her and apologise,"

"You better, now where are we going?"

"I know you like fish, so how about Wheeler's, a few oysters, a small salmon, whatever."

"I hate oysters, like snot in a shell."

"What a charming picture you paint, no oysters then, however, is a fish restaurant okay?"

"Perfect, lead on."

The meal was good, her wine pleasant and the film as captivating as she remembered. Later they took a cab to her home and again he hugged and kissed her before leaving. She tidied up quickly and headed to bed. The Thursday meetings continued for over a year and each time he managed to stun her with his flair for surprises. Their last meeting had included a meal and seats at Sadler's Wells, followed by a Modern Ballet version of Cinderella.

The following Tuesday Dave phoned and apologised but this weeks meeting would have to be cancelled, he had an overnight observation and couldn't get away, could they reschedule for Monday, she agreed. After hanging up she realised how she looked forward to his calling and their nights out. Strange how he had become such a fixture in her life. She felt a lump in her throat, silly girl she chided herself. 

The week soon flew by and she found herself outside a modern bar in town waiting for him. Ten minutes later, red faced and flustered he arrived, running up and hugging her, apologising profusely for keeping her waiting. They went in and he waved to four guys at a table in a corner. 

"These are my mates, I've been telling them about you and how we're just friends and they wanted to meet you, are you alright with that?"

"Bit late asking me now Roberts, but yes I'm okay. Look you could have told me I'd have dressed up a bit."

"God no, I'd definitely lose you then,"

He grinned and helped her out of her coat. After a swift round of introductions she instantly forgot her misgivings. Two were their age, one older, one younger, but all bright and full of mischief. Dave got lots of ribbing over his friendship with her, they winked and sparkled. She loved them, one and all. They bought her drinks, not seeming to care that Dave had coke or coffee, whilst they downed pints. It was a raucous evening and she learned a good deal about Dave he'd never have volunteered on his own. At nine thirty the older guy Bob 'something' got up to go, kissed Laura's cheek, shook hands with the others and left.

"So what does Bob do?" she asked,

"He's the Guv'nor," they said as one.

"What, he's your boss?"

"No that's Fred Philpott, Commander Fred Philpott actually, he's the boss."

"So what's Bob's rank?"

"Chief Inspector, he runs our team and reports to Fred."

"So Fred's the Boss, but Bob's the Guv'nor?"

"Exactly!" they chorused and dissolved into laughter.

"Your Round,"

"Yeah and you're fat, but I'll get some drinks in."

"Old Joke!"

"Last one for me, early start tomorrow."

"True, yeah better knock it on the head after this,"

They had a last drink then broke up, shaking hands and leaving. Dave walked Laura to a cab and climbed in with her. They drove back in silence,he leaping out at her home to help her out. She smiled and held him.

"Come up for coffee, please, well squash or whatever."

"You sure?"

"Never surer, come in with me please."

"I'll pay off our friend here, just a moment."

After he paid he followed her up to her flat. Inside they headed to the kitchen. She opened the fridge took out a bottle of wine and a coke. Pouring his drink, she sat down with him at the counter. She took his hand,

"Dave I don't want to raise your expectations, but I want to know that over this last few months I have come to really look forward to Thursdays."

"Me too, it's been great fun. Sorry about this week, couldn't be helped."

"I don't mind, especially after tonight, your mates are great, I really enjoyed myself."

"Good, I hope so, it's a big step introducing a new friend to a group of mates."

"Especially a girl friend who isn't a girlfriend?"

"Yeah, a friend of the opposite sex can be complicating matters."

"Dave, would you like me to be your girlfriend, rather than just a girl friend?"

"You know I'd love that, why is that a possibility?"

"I think it is, I really just enjoy being with you, I look forward to Thursdays a lot."

"Hmm, me too, although for other reasons, as you know."

"Dave I won't play with you, I said our relationship would have to be just friends."

"I know and I respect that, you've had a devastating loss, you're not ready to commit to a relationship at the moment. But, I feel honoured that you would have me as a friend. Thank you."

"Dave, I think we are moving to more than just friendship, I think I'm ready to start dating again, but you'll have to bear with me, it's still in there and painful."

"You know if there was any way I could take that pain away I would."

"Yes I do and I.. I love you for it."

"Thank you, Laura, now how about I get off and let you get to bed."

"Don't you want to stay?"

"More than anything in the world, but, I have to go home to make sure mum is okay and I do have an early start tomorrow. I'll ring you, okay."

His lips grazed hers and he held her tightly, they moved apart, kissed gently then he was gone. She sat down and cried, long and hard. She cried for lost love and new love. Finally she dried her tears on the backs of her hands and tidied up before bed. She fell into a deep sleep and was awoken rudely by her alarm at six thirty the following morning.

At work she called Polly in and asked her to shut the door. Switching her phone to divert she sat Polly down and told her everything about herself. Polly sat entranced, shocked, amazed, hands to her mouth at times. Finally Laura confessed how she had fallen headlong for Dave Roberts over the last few months. Polly cried and Laura comforted her. Polly said she absolutely must make it clear to Dave what she felt and to leave nothing out. Laura confessed to Polly how she ached to have him in her bed, Polly blushed and laughed then said she could see he felt the same for her. Laura phoned Dave's mobile and left a message asking him to call her.

At seven that evening Dave arrived at her flat, scrubbed and gleaming. Catching her breath she invited him in. They went to the kitchen, where most of their time was spent.

"Thanks for coming, drink?"

"Thanks, coke if there's any left."

"I bought a pack, just in case."

"Okay, well I don't think I'll get through a six pack tonight,"

"No I bought a thirty six pack party size box ."

"What! why?" he grinned.

"Oh God... because I want enough to last for however long you stay," she blushed.

"Stay, here, overnight?"

"Longer.."

"Longer?"

"Much longer, much, much longer."

"Laura, are yo okay, are you feeling okay?"

"Never better, Dave I... You have been a good and true friend to me ever since what happened, happened. But I don't want your friendship anymore, I want.. I want to be your lover..."

"Oh my God, you mean..."

"Yes, yes everything, the whole nine yards, please, please, hold me, for God's sake hold me,"




Three Lives, Five people



Laura stood shakily and felt his arms wrapped round her. Strong masculine protective arms. Holding her tight, his lips pressed to her cheek. She cried, loudly and long, he just held her, letting her get it all out.

"Laura, I never ever dreamed you would ever think of me as more than a friend, after your fathers death I just wanted to make you laugh and smile again. I thought we could just be friends and it would be enough, it wasn't but it was all I had. I have loved you from the day I first met you, I love you more every day."

"Oh Dave! I realised I loved you after meeting you with your mates. You were so proud of me for just being there. You never pushed, you never rushed things, you were, no are, the perfect friend, but I want even more from you now."

"Whatever you need or want, I will try to give it to you, this is beyond my wildest dream. You are so beautiful Laura, I love you so much it hurts. But the pain is worth it for every single second I hold you like this."

"Can you stay tonight?"

"Do you want me to?"

"Yes, very much."

"I need to make a call, is that okay?" 

"Sure, I'll leave you here.."

"No wait, it will only be a minute."

He flicked his phone on and quickly thumbed in a number.

"Mum, it's me, are you alright? Good, good. Mum I 'm not coming back tonight. What? No everything is okay, yes I will. Mum I'm going to stay at Laura's, yes the girl I told you about, I will, see you soon, love you, bye."

He clicked the phone off and looked at her with a shrug.

"I can't lie to her, she means too much to me, as do you."

Laura moved to him and they kissed. Holding each other, their tongues played with each other. His hands slid up her back to her shoulders as he held her close. Her hands slid round his back. Time stood still, no sounds penetrated their world, no sights other than each other held their gaze. Laura eventually disengaged from him, panting slightly, she ran her palms across his pecs.

"Would you like to see my bedroom?"

"I'd love to, show me."

Taking his hand she led him into the main bedroom where a king size divan bed stood. She pulled him onto the bed and kissed him again. He ran his hands over her back, she wriggled in excitement. He sat back and she pushed against him.

"Hmm, DC Roberts is that a truncheon in your pocket or are you very glad to see me?"

"I may ask to see your particulars madam. Anything you say may be taken down..."

"Knickers..." She grinned and squirmed onto his lap, pushing him backwards. 

Sitting up she pulled her sweater over her head, arms tangled in the clingy fabric. She felt his hands over her bra, slowly moving over the contours of her breasts. Her pussy moistened. She wriggled feeling his erection rub against her. He helped disentangle her from her top, then slid his arms round her and deftly uncinched her bra, which she unself-consciously shrugged off. He gasped at the perfection of her breasts. The small tight nipples and larger aerolea, crinkling in excitement. Laura grabbed at his shirt, almost tearing the buttons off, pulling it out of his trousers, raising himself slightly he allowed her to strip it off him. Her hands running over his perfect pecs and taut abdomen.

Within seconds they were pulling off the rest of their clothes flinging them away with abandon. Coming together they kissed deeply as their hands sought out the others body in an orgy of exploration. Kneeling up, Laura on top, found his erection and slid her hands round it.

"Laura, I have to tell you something,"

"Please don't let it be you have an STD?" she joked, half seriously.

"No silly, Laura, I'm a virgin," he almost whispered.

"No!"

"Yes,"

"Oh my God, I..."

"Laura I love you but please..."

"Are you going to say be gentle with me?" she giggled, still rubbing his penis in her hands.

"No.. I.. I'm so excited this may not last long, because..."

He tailed off as her hands working their magic caused him to climax and his cock head sent six or seven huge bursts of cum up between her legs, landing on her thighs and pussy. He grunted in release,

"Oh I.. Sorry, sorry, I ..Sorry," his head dropped. She looked at him in bewilderment and reached for him.

"Dave, no it's me, I just expected that.. I am so sorry, look, it's okay, we can try again in a while, I love you, this is not failure this is love. I had no idea, you poor, poor man, you were so good to me, so arousing. Hold me, hold me tight Dave. "

Lying across him she felt his arms on her back, his flaccid cock between them. She kissed him as they held each other. Her hands moved a couple of stray hairs off his face and she snuggled into his chest. His hand moved from her to the duvet, which he moved over her, to keep them warm. They held each other and drifted off. Later they lay side by side and were soon spooning. Sleep, deep and calming overtook them and they lay together in a dreamless coupling. They awoke as the sun broke through to announce morning.

"What time is it?"

"Just after five, why?"

"I'll have to go soon, you?"

"Mmm, yes I usually get up about half six, I need to do my hair and stuff,"

"Stuff?"

"Girly stuff."

"Ohh! sooo, are you likely to go back to sleep 'til then?"

"What do you think, oh, that's nice, is that for me?"

"Definitely, ohh, warm hands."

"Touch me?"

"Gladly,"

"Ohh, yes like that, mmmm,"

Talking ceased as their mouths locked together, then moving up over him Laura pulled his stiff prick to her wet and welcoming pussy, soon she had him ready for her. Sitting up she grunted as he slid into her, feeling his cock fill her up. He marveled at the warm moist silk glove that folded perfectly around his stiff member. They began to move with each other. His cock rubbing her clit as she rocked on him. His hands felt for her breasts and she sighed with pleasure. They soon increased momentum until she was rocking with short thrusts against him.

Screaming his name she rocked harder until she stiffened and her pussy pulsed over his length. He pushed against her and held hard as his cock spurted a mass of cum deep inside her. Flopping forward she cried and held him, feeling his arms wrap around her. They lay still, no words, no movement, it was all as it should be. 

Later stirring they kissed and rose, sharing the bathroom, dressing and kissing. Sharing a breakfast kiss they parted in the street. Promising to phone one another later, walking away in opposite directions.

In the office Polly looked at her quizzically, then grinned and stuck her thumb up from her closed fist. Laura grinned and winked. Polly scooted round her desk and followed her into the office, shutting the door behind her.

"Every detail, every moment, don't miss anything out, tell me, tell me please."

Polly hugged herself and jumped up and down on the spot.

"Polly, please, this is so embarrassing, give me a moment." Laura inhaled and exhaled slowly. Then sat at her desk,

"Polly, if I tell you this, it goes no further right?"

"Of course, you know me,"

"Exactly, which is why you must keep this to yourself. Promise?"

"Absolutely,"

"Promise!"

"Oh! all right, I promise my lips are sealed."

"I thought mine were until last night," Laura blushed as she said it.

"Laura!"

"Well, I wanted him so much, we made love that was so good, normally the first time is a bit, you know?"

"No, but tell me,"

"Have you never... are you a?.. are you?.."

"Yes! Now get on with it," Polly hugged her hands between her thighs.

"Oh Polly I never thought I would experience so much pleasure again, he was perfect, he was... WOW!"

"Go on, how many times did you do it?"

"Once, but Polly it was the best, the best ever."

"Better than?.." Polly let the question hang, Laura hesitated,

"No not better but so different and something I hope I can enjoy for years to come."

"So has he got a..."

"Polly, I'm not going to answer that, let's just say it was no disappointment."

"Well you certainly seem brighter this morning, must be love." Polly giggled and stood, "Coffee?"

"Please, thanks Polly."

"Welcome, speak later," and she was gone.

Laura's mobile chirruped, Dave?

"Hallo?"

"Laura?"

"Dave, I was just thinking about you, in a very nice way you understand."

"I had to call, I can't stop thinking about.. you know, how about you?"

"Dave, it was fantastic, the best, I am so glad we waited, it was well worth it, trust me, you were perfect."

"Well thank you, after the early fall out I wondered, well whether I'd blown it?"

"The only person blowing things in this relationship is going to be me, trust me on that. Suffice to say I want you more than ever now."

"I know this is difficult for you, but whatever it takes, I'll wait for you."

"Darling, there is no more waiting, you are the one for me, even if we never make love again, it wouldn't matter. Last night and this morning were perfect. You did good Roberts, you rocked my world big time."

"Me too, I can't believe what happened, I am so lucky,"

"Not luck big boy, I love you more than I ever thought possible, you really are in all my waking thoughts and my dreams too."

"Okay, must go, there's a big flap on and they're dragging us all in. See you later."

"Love you, be careful, let the others be heroes, save yourself for me."

"Bye,"

"Bye"

Polly looked in with a coffee mug a huge grin on her face,

"Mr Big Okay?"

"He's not big, he's just perfect, so knock it off."

"Sorry boss,"

"I should think so, now off and work please." 

Laura smiled and looked down at her in tray. How in hell was there so much, she'd cleared it last night. Sighing she grabbed it all and began to sift through it, prioritising the work stream. She warmed to the task and proceeded to move into Laura-at-work mode. Looking up she saw it was four thirty, the pile all but finished. There was a knock on the doorframe she looked up and smiled as Dave stood there.

"Hi Babe, I've come to see you on business I'm sorry to say," he walked over bent and kissed her cheek, taking her hand he squeezed it gently.

"What's up?" she shivered, as if someone had walked over her grave.

"It's your mother, she's escaped from the hospital's secure unit. They found an orderly badly beaten strapped to her bed. They don't know how but she outwitted her and swapped clothes."

"What! how long ago was this?"

"Nine or ten hours ago I think, she could be anywhere by now, she took the woman's car keys and obviously her car's gone."

"Shit!"

"Shit indeed, anyway I managed to get assigned as your protection officer, so I get to be with you twenty four seven."

"Ooh Goody, does that include shower time."

"Yup, gotta protect your body at all costs, and may I say what a perfect body it is?"

"You may and I believe you, but only because I know what an upright officer you are."

"Sorry I'll adjust my trousers."

She laughed and stood to hug him. Polly came in blushed and turned to go, spotting her Dave pounced and hugged her tightly as Laura stood giggling. Polly, very red, stood stock still a look of horror on her face.

"Put her down, she doesn't know where you've been."

"I could tell her!"

"Don't! she knows too much anyway."

"Shall I kill her now boss?" He growled

Polly screamed and fled, her legs pumping up and down.

Laura swatted Dave's arm and they sat on the edge of her desk.

"Grab your coat and I'll take you home, get you out of sight, whilst the guys try to get your mother back where she belongs."

Laura bit her lip and nodded, picking up her coat and bag they left. Dave waved to Polly, who blushed and looked down at her desk, shuffling papers. Laura hit him again, calling a goodbye as they left. The journey home was quiet as they sat sat by side, arms linked, just enjoying the others presence. 

At Laura's she let him open the door to go in, he half turned to kiss her when the wooden rolling pin crashed against his skull. He gasped and dropped like a stone, Laura bent forward and then saw a woman's shoes by Dave's head.

"Hello Laura darling, why don't you two come in,"

Looking up she saw her mother with the rolling pin and a large bladed kitchen knife. Laura bent to Dave and half dragged, half carried him into the hallway. He groaned as his head lolled around on his neck, she lowered him and moved him to the recovery position.

"Oh how sweet, my little girl and a policeman, utterly charming. Now leave him and get in there."

Shelagh Johnson jabbed the knife towards the lounge, throwing the rolling pin up the hallway. Laura rose slowly and walked to the door, watching her mother walk behind her and awaiting the slice or stab that would inevitably kill her. Her eyes misted and she let out a sob.

"Yes, you bitch, you know you're going to die, you should have let me finish you last time. I intend to be much more inventive this time however. Now, strip."

"Wha..."

"Take your clothes off, it will stop you trying to escape and also puts you at a disadvantage to me. Also I can check to see if you're wired."

"Wired, why would I be wired?"

"So you can trick me into saying I murdered your father, when we all know it was your fault, you harlot, now strip and do it slowly." Shelagh waved the knife at her menacingly, her mouth set in a feral grin.

Laura slowly stripped, folding her clothes over the arm of the sofa. Shelagh's eyes devoured her body, she licked her lips involuntary responding to the stimuli of her daughter. She reached forward and Laura tried not to flinch as her mother's hand slid over her thigh and stomach, sliding up to and roaming over her breast. She continued up to her neck, then slid it slowly down to her pubis.

"So delicious, yum yum, you always were beautiful and so soft and silky. I like the fact you wax, so smooth and oh! what have we here, so slippery, are you excited Laura, does mummy touching you turn you on?"

Laura felt the tears welling in her eyes as Shelagh began to run her finger along her crease, slowly pushing her finger into the soft warm moist interior. Laura felt her mothers fingertip flick her clit, she drew in a breath. Shelagh placed the knife across Laura's throat as she bent and sucked on her nipple. Laura began to cry, little gasps escaping from her mouth as she shook slightly with fear and cold. Straightening Shelagh smiled wickedly, the knife hand falling to her side.

Suddenly Shelagh staggered back as Dave grabbed her hair and wrenched it backwards, she staggered and swung the knife in his direction. There was a sharp crack and a scream as Dave bought his extending baton down across her wrist. She staggered back towards Laura. Laura screamed and spat in her mothers face before swinging a roundhouse punch at her. Shelagh dodged but Dave had stepped in and the baton caught her just behind the knee, she went down on one leg. Dave produced his handcuffs and snapped one side over her good wrist, dragging her out to the hall he slipped the other through the wall plate of the radiator. Shelagh raged and ranted as Dave took his jacket and covered Laura. Using his mobile he called in. Minutes later sirens announced the arrival of backup. 

Later after a visit to the hospital they returned to Dave's house where his mother fussed over Laura, much to Dave's amusement. After a little persuasion Dave managed to convince Laura to stay that night. He phoned Polly and they spoke at length. Polly would cover for Laura tomorrow, as Dave was determined that Laura would not be going to work. Soon Dave was cooking supper as Laura and Dave's mum Ros went through the photo albums, a history of his childhood and early years. 

After supper, he washed, she wiped, they kissed. He put her to bed and went to talk to his mother. Later he slipped into bed with her, spooning and sliding a hand round her waist. After a second or two her hand found his and she sighed deeply.

In the morning Dave brought her tea in bed, sat with her, then went to check on his mother. She heard him and Ros talking animatedly then laughter, Dave returned grinning,

"Mum says pop in and say good morning, she'd love a chance for a girly chat, I'm not invited."

Laura grinned and wrapped his dressing gown round her, holding it shut. Walking into Ros's room she was surprised at the medical paraphernalia in there. Ros dismissed it as clutter, but struggled to sit up. Laura went to help, conscious as she raised Ros up that the gown had flapped open.

"I can see why Dave loves you," Ros said, smiling, "You're very pretty too. I am so glad Dave has found someone, perhaps he'll leave me alone for a while, always fussing around. I'm a big girl now I can manage. Well mostly."

"I'm sure you can Ros, but we all know it's lovely to have a bit of pampering." Laura laid her hand on Ros's, she grinned and kissed her cheek.

"Oh yes he's very lucky, you're a real gem. I hope you both are going to be very happy."

"I'm sure we will, and I'd love to see you and find out more about him." 

Ros laughed, Laura reached for Ros's hand,

"Ros, I want you to know this, I really love him and will do my best not to hurt him, I promise you that."

Ros looked at her and smiled,

"Laura I have no doubt you will do exactly that. But remember no matter how crippled I am, you hurt him and I will hunt you down and kill you." 

"I hope you do."

"Good, and vice versa, if he hurts you I'll kill him."

"I don't think he would ever consciously do that Ros, the Dave I know isn't wired that way. I'm the unknown factor here."

"You're perfect, I know you'll be good for each other, now off you go and dress, my carer will be here soon to get me up and about."

"Oh! anything I can do?"

"Go see Dave, off you go."

"Dismissed?"

"Absolutely, see you soon."

"Bye,"

Laura returned to the bedroom, seeing Dave with a towel wrapped round his middle, she sauntered up to him and stood on tiptoe for a kiss, As he leaned towards her she whipped the towel off with a whoop. He laughed and pulled at the sleeve of the dressing gown. Twisting and dipping she slipped out of it and he pounced, lifting her up under both arms and dropping her on the bed. She went to get up, but he was on her holding her down. Tickling her, he reduced her to a helpless mess, her hair all over the place. She jerked and screamed as he found her weak spots. Then he kissed her and she flung her arms round him. holding tightly.

"Well Roberts, what are we doing today?"

"We have a special trip, one I've want to take you on for a while."

"Where are we going?"

"To visit your father, together."

"Dave I ..."

"I know you've not seen him since the funeral, but today we are going to visit and you are going to have the opportunity to tell him all the things you want to, all right?"

"Yes, Yes, that would be good, thank you. I need to set him free and me too, thank you. After that.."

"Well we can see what gives and perhaps think about a holiday together, perhaps somewhere warm."

"A Honeymoon?"

"If you want."

"I want,"

"then that's what it will be."