Elizabeth Grey - Parts 18 - 20 free porn video

Elizabeth Grey - Part 18: Yes, Mum, I'm sure. By Carmenica Diaz 'Hello, Mum.' 'Liz! How did it go last night? I hope it was wonderful!' 'It was Mum, it was!' I happily told her all about the previous night for at least twenty minutes, Mum interjecting with questions and I could tell she was as excited as I was.' 'Mum, Angela was there,' I said hesitantly. 'Was she? Edward is away. Did she say anything to you?' I remembered Angela standing at the back, staring at me as I sang those lyrics to her and the way she turned around and left. 'No, she didn't,' I said guiltily. 'Last time she was here, Liz,' Mum spoke quietly, 'she asked about you again.' 'Before or after the row about the wedding,' I asked. 'Before, love, she seemed a little sad.' 'Why should she?' I said bitterly. 'Angela's got what she wanted and she's getting married. What more can a girl want?' Mum let that one go and then slyly asked, 'did anyone else come to see you play?' 'Well, Jeremy was there of course...' 'He's so lovely when he answers the telephone, I'd like to meet him one day.' 'He would like to meet you.' 'That would be nice. Jeremy was the only friend who came?' Mum never let go when she sensed she was onto something. 'There were other friends,' I said airily, 'people I've met...' 'Football players, for example?' I felt myself flush. 'Actually, yes, Kiefer came, it was very supportive of him...' 'He looks rather supportive in the photograph in the newspapers.' 'What? I'm in the newspapers again?' 'Afraid so, love. It's a nice picture - you're smiling, you look so happy and beautiful. It looks like he has his arm around you but perhaps I need new glasses.' 'Mum! Don't tease!' We talked for a little longer, she wished me luck for the next performance and we said our goodbyes. 'Call me later, Liz?' 'Of course, Mum.' 'I love you, Liz.' 'Love you, Mum and thanks.' 'Thanks? For what, love?' 'You.' 'You can get dressed now, Liz,' Janet said. 'You're doing very well,' she said when I emerged from behind the screen and proceeded to take me through the latest tests and the progress. 'Everything is proceeding as predicted,' she said at the end. 'That's good,' I said absently and Janet smiled. 'Are you meeting Sylvia today?' I nodded. 'At lunchtime, I think.' 'Have you got some things you want to talk about?' I looked up at her and she added hurriedly, 'I didn't mean with Sylvia, I meant me.' 'No, I don't think so...' 'Liz,' Janet said, 'I have seen the papers.' When I arrived, Janet had congratulated me on the performance. Jeremy had rung her to tell her. 'I think you should discuss what's happening with Sylvia.' 'You mean Kiefer?' I said in a low voice, looking down. 'Yes.' Janet took my hand. 'I'm happy for you Liz, but relationships are tricky...' 'I know,' I said moodily. Sylvia listened and we talked it through. 'Do you want to tell him?' 'I don't know.' 'My advice is that's it's far too early in the relationship, if in fact it's even a relationship. Enjoy it, Liz, enjoy everything, it's all happening for you know, isn't it?' 'Yes, I suppose it is.' She stared at me keenly. 'What else is bothering you, Liz?' she asked softly and I told her about Angela. 'It's understandable you're confused. This is the person that started you down a path that has become life changing and life affirming for you, but at the same time, she betrayed your friendship. It's all very confusing.' 'Yes, it is,' I wailed. Terry was beaming like all his Christmas's had come at once. 'It's bloody packed again! Geoffrey Taylor is here...' 'Who's he when he's at home?' Cleo asked as she applied lipstick. 'He writes a newspaper column. It would be great if you could talk to him or something...' 'I have met him,' I said, brushing a piece of lint from my skirt. 'You have?' Mandy asked. 'He's a friend of Jeremy's.' Terry left as Fiona bustled in. 'Good crowd again and I've brought some A & R people from some labels...' 'A & R?' I asked and Fiona grinned. 'Sorry, Artists and Repertoire, it's an American term and both the labels I have here are American. I had to twist their bloody arms but once they hear you, I think they'll be scrambling to offer you a contract.' Toby pushed past her. 'Five minutes, girls, are we ready?' 'I am,' Mel said with a smile at his use of the Royal We, 'don't know about you though, Toby.' 'He's always ready,' Cleo said slyly and Toby blushed while we giggled. This time I looked at the audience as we walked out and as agreed, we all gave them a short wave on our way to the instruments. I was surprised to see a table with Jeremy, Dean, Arno, Colin and Geoffrey with some women towards the front. That afternoon we had decided to change the song roster and to introduce some new numbers so we began with an extended version of 'Knickers' and then moved immediately into 'So Far Away' with an acoustic guitar bridge to 'Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow'. The applause was enthusiastic and Mandy made a few comments before Cleo counted us into 'Femme Fatale'. When we ended that, someone called out for 'Autumn in New York' and Mandy grinned, raised an eyebrow at me and we slid into it. Again, the applause was thunderous and I smiled at Jeremy as we played 'You've Got a Friend', followed by 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm' and 'Dance the Old Fashioned Way'. A few quick nods and we began a song we hadn't played in public before 'You're My Thrill'. You're my thrill, You do something to me You send chills right through me When I look at you 'Cause you're my thrill Mel's saxophone solo gave me goose bumps and pushed me harder on the last verse and the audience were standing, applauding crazily, whistling and calling for more. This time we played 'Take Five' as the encore and blew the house down. 'Quick,' Toby said as we dashed down the corridor, 'Fiona said to get changed quickly as she's bringing the record types.' 'What does she think we are, quick change artists?' Cleo grumped, kicking her shoes off. 'You'd better be, darling,' he smiled, kissed her forehead and slipped out. Cleo glared at us. 'Don't say a word.' I smiled. 'Cleo, we all think it's bloody marvellous, we really do.' 'We do indeed,' Mel said. 'Darling,' she added, ducking when Cleo threw a shoe at her. We were dressed when there was a tap on the door and Fiona came in, followed by a black man with greying hair and a wonderfully warm smile. 'Ladies,' Fiona said, 'this is Vernon Wexler, president of Soul Atlantic Records.' 'Ooh,' Mel said, 'a president, I'm impressed.' We were all impressed as Soul Atlantic was the premier American jazz and soul label. Vernon laughed. 'I think I'm impressed, baby. You were really blowing hot tonight.' 'Thanks,' Mel said and Fiona quickly introduced us all and he had an astute observation to each of us. 'You tuned down,' he said to Mandy, 'on 'You're My Thrill'. It gave it a growling note.' Mandy nodded thoughtfully as Vernon congratulated Cleo. 'You a some cool drummer, lady,' he said and she smiled. 'Thanks.' And then he smiled at me. 'You have a unique style of playing,' he said as he took my hand, 'you're going to influence a lot of jazz pianists. Such a soft touch and there were times when I thought you were behind but the notes just fell right. Crazy stuff and there were times if I closed my eyes when you sang that I would've said you were black! Where did you get your voice?' I flushed. Does he know, I wondered, have I made a slip up already? 'I don't know, it's just me.' 'It sure is, baby,' he grinned, 'it surely is and amen to that!' 'Vernon decided to come tonight as he was in the country, just flew in yesterday...' 'And I'm glad I did,' he said cutting Fiona off and we all glanced at each other at that but Fiona just smiled. 'I'm going to cut to the chase as I know you got guys from other labels here but I want you on my label. No,' he said emphatically, 'you belong on my label, it is the home of jazz.' We all grinned at each other and I spoke as a thought occurred to me, 'Mr Wexler...' 'Please, I'm Vernon to my people.' My people? 'Well...ok...I'm Liz...but it's important to us that we, the four of us make the decisions on our material.' Fiona shot me a stern look but I ignored her as Mandy, Mel and Cleo were nodding. 'I agree,' Vernon said calmly, smiling, 'I can dig that. We might suggest some songs...' 'Hey, we'd like that,' Cleo said, 'but...' 'You make the call. I dig it, no problem.' 'It'll be in the contract,' Fiona said, rolling her eyes in resignation, and Vernon nodded. 'Think about it,' Vernon said with a warm smile, 'but I want you on my label and I want you to be happy on the label. I'm going to get some sleep, it was a great show.' When the door closed behind Vernon and Fiona we jumped into the centre and hugged, laughing and congratulating each other. I called by Jeremy's table and the men immediately stood. 'Brilliant again, my dear,' Jeremy said as he kissed my cheek. 'Outstanding, Elizabeth,' Geoffrey said, 'I'm eagerly going to write about your performance in Sunday's column.' 'Thank you so much, that's rather kind of you. We're just a small band and we rather enjoy what we do.' 'And you do it extremely well,' Colin said with a smile. Arno congratulated me and introduced me to his wife and Geoffrey's. I accepted their congratulations, said my goodbyes and was making my escape when a voice held me. 'Miss Grey, could I possibly have a word?' I knew the voice and my heart began to beat loudly as I turned, fixing a smile to my lips. 'Sean,' I exclaimed in an attempt to be charming. 'It is indeed,' he said, smiling down at me. 'You look remarkable, I don't suppose we saw each other in the best of circumstances last time but you are stunning.' His eyes ran over me, devouring me and I let them, smiling shyly at him. 'Thank you, you are rather kind.' 'And my memory must be failing, I knew you were beautiful, but to see you again...' He paused, seemingly embarrassed and regained his composure. 'I'm raving a little, I think. I must say I had no idea you were so talented. The performance was outstanding, truly outstanding.' 'Thank you again,' I said lightly. 'I was hoping we could meet for a talk, I would like to discuss some things with you, if you don't mind?' 'Things?' My heart pounded even more loudly. 'What things?' 'Oh this and that,' he said airily. 'I wouldn't wish to intrude now,' he said, glancing around, 'but could we meet for a coffee tomorrow morning? I won't take too much of your time.' 'But... what do you wish to discuss?' 'A little bit more about Europe and your brother, that's all. Just some clarification.' We arranged to meet at a Mario's, a caf? I often went to in Notting Hill and I wondered what he knew or, more importantly, what he wanted to know. What, I wondered, has Angela told him? He was waiting for me when I arrived at the caf?. 'Sorry I'm late,' I said apologetically, 'I'm always late, I'm afraid.' 'A woman's prerogative,' he said with a smile and I returned the smile, smoothing my skirt before sitting. We ordered coffee and when they arrived, Sean smiled again and said, 'I hope I'm not being forward but I must tell you that when you walk into a place, you light it up.' 'Well...' I murmured, flushing, 'that is very kind of you...' 'I expect you hear it all the time,' he said, a little miserably I thought and then asked, 'I believe you and Angela have had a falling out?' 'Is that so?' I said, stirring my coffee. 'Angela told me,' Sean said at last. 'We are friends,' he said apologetically. 'So it would seem.' 'I understand that you and your brother are also estranged?' I nodded reluctantly. 'Can I ask what about?' 'I don't think it's any of your business,' I said evenly. We sat in silence as I watched the people walking past the caf? on the busy Saturday and I felt him studying me. He knows, I told myself and fought the panic, he knows somehow! 'Elizabeth,' Sean began, 'I'm afraid I was rather responsible for Edward's exit from the... department. He did disobey a directive and caused quite a stink as you would imagine...' 'I'm not at all concerned about my brother's career.' 'Understood. However, I find myself in rather a sticky position as it would appear that Angela did break more rules and regulations that I first imagined.' I watched him, the way his brow furrowed when he sought to find the words to adequately describe his thoughts, and the way his bright blue eyes flashed when he said my brother's name. He's very good looking, a stray thought fluttered by, rather dishy actually. 'Yes?' I said coolly and Sean shrugged and half smiled. 'Angela has resigned as you know but she could find herself in a great deal of trouble, possibly in prison.' 'Oh? I'm not sure I'm following you, Sean.' 'If it was found that she forced or tricked people into doing things that...' 'You're in love with her, aren't you?' I sipped my coffee and watched him, waiting for the reaction. It wasn't the reaction I expected. 'In love with Angela?' His face broke into a large grin and he laughed. 'Good lord no! She's like a kid sister, sometimes rather annoying and she has a rather interesting taste in men,' he added with a down curled lip, 'but I find myself continually bailing her out of trouble. I'm just concerned that I may not be able to bail her out this time.' He smiled again. 'You should smile more often,' I found myself saying and immediately flushed. 'What do you want from me, Sean?' I said quickly. 'I've been reluctant to begin investigation, partially because I worry what I will uncover about Angela and also because, frankly, I don't think the department or the government really gives a toss. I thought I would ask you what happened.' Sean watched me carefully. 'Ask you what she told you and now that you've had a falling out, are more likely to tell me the truth.' 'I see. It's not a very nice world you live in, is it Sean?' He slowly shook his head. 'No, it's not but I thought I can at least sign the thing off that I interviewed you.' I sighed and arranged my hands in my lap. 'What do you want to know?' 'Did Angela tell you everything?' There it was, the million pound question, the crux of the matter. 'Yes, I think so. She told me from the start that she loved my brother and that he had disappeared. Also told me he was a James Bond type and,' I smiled wryly, 'of course I didn't believe her.' 'Did you get her the job with the All Stars?' 'Yes, I suppose I did. It was just a piece of luck, actually.' He thinks I was always a member of that band! 'So you went on the tour knowing you could help your brother?' 'Yes, it was always a possibility and although I thought the plan was a little vague, I wanted to do what I could.' 'Why was it vague?' 'Well, it was hardly concrete. If the negotiations didn't succeed, this mysterious friend who turned out to be you was going to free him...' 'Me? That's impossible,' Sean said, shocked. 'The negotiations were always going to proceed. The Soviet Union is falling apart and they wouldn't care what happened to Stratton. I was never going to free him in some covert operation!' 'Why would Angela say you were?' I stared at him, was he telling the truth? He shrugged. 'Heaven knows. She can be rather a clod at times, gets a bee in her bonnet and goes off, not listening to anyone. Her imagination goes into overdrive and it's amazing what she gets up to. She's rather attracted to danger. Come to think of it, that may explain her infatuation with your brother.' There was that down turned curl of the lip again. 'So you went along with it to help your brother if you could?' 'Yes, I did.' 'Even though, you and your brother obviously dislike each other?' I opened my mouth but didn't know what to say and he watched me. 'It wasn't always that way,' I finally said in a soft voice. 'He is my brother.' 'I won't pry into family matters,' Sean said quietly. 'Do you see your other brother?' My head snapped up and he continued, 'I saw a note on the original file that Angela gave me that there was another brother. I can't recall the name.' 'Allan and I keep in contact,' I whispered. 'I assume you're the youngest?' 'Yes,' I murmured, 'I am.' 'Right,' he said, smiling, 'you've confirmed what Angela told me. I think I can close the file and be shot of it all at last. Thank you for your time. You've been a great help.' 'Not at all,' I said, trying to smile. 'I may try to see you play again tonight, I was rather enthralled by you last night, I'm afraid.' 'Please do, I can arrange for tickets if...' 'No,' he said awkwardly' I must confess... well... I have the ticket already.' He blushed as if I had caught him out. 'Oh.' 'I'm not very good at talking to beautiful women, I'm afraid, I get overwhelmed... I know it's silly of me but...' 'How often has this terrible reaction occurred?' I teased and he locked his eyes on mine. 'Just once,' Sean said softly, 'just once.' 'Oh my,' I said and I just knew my face was bright red. Mercifully, he signalled the waiter and I smiled at Sean when he looked back. 'Elizabeth...' 'Please call me Liz,' I murmured and he nodded. 'Liz, Angela is very upset that your friendship has been damaged in someway. Can I say that even though he is your brother, Edward Stratton is a bit of a shit and not worth breaking your friendship with Angela over.' 'You're right,' I said as we stood and Sean looked hopefully at me, 'my brother is a bit of a shit. Thank you so much for the coffee.' 'Thank you, Liz,' Sean said and I gathered my handbag. "Could I ask,' he said hesitantly, 'I know it's none of my business but... the newspapers... are you and that bloke Brennan?' 'We're friends,' I smiled. 'We've met only twice.' Sean beamed. 'Right then, and perhaps I'll see you tonight.' Again, we were a sell out and I was surprised to see Vernon and Fiona at a table as we played. We tried out a few new numbers and were given an almost rapturous applause when we finished our second encore. Fiona was in a great mood and told us that she had the contract from Soul Atlantic and would go over it during the week. 'Vernon has asked if you would consider a short tour of America, just New York, L.A. and perhaps some others...' 'Just New York and L. A.,' Cleo mimicked and we laughed. 'He's anxious for you to get into the studio and record and was hoping you could do that in New York as well.' 'It's happening so fast,' I murmured. Mandy squeezed my hand. 'It's a little frightening, isn't it?' I had forgotten about Sean and was surprised to see him leaning at the bar when I emerged from the dressing room. 'Liz,' he called, smiling, 'you were excellent again, absolutely top notch.' 'Why,' I smiled, 'thank you.' 'Would you like a drink?' 'I'm not much of a drinker but perhaps a white wine?' The barman heard me and smiled as he passed the wineglass over to me. 'Great show again, Miss Grey,' he called before he went back to another customer. 'Thank you,' I called after him and he smiled back. 'You were fabulous,' Sean said, leading me to an alcove. 'What's next for Femme Fatale?' 'I think,' I said slowly, just becoming used to the idea myself, 'that we might be going to America.' His face fell and he quickly recovered. 'Oh? Not for good, I hope?' 'Goodness no,' I laughed, 'a tour, that's all.' 'Well,' he smiled, 'that's a relief.' 'Do you usually go to jazz bars, Mr... god, I've just realised I don't know you name!' I laughed, my fingers over my mouth. 'I feel such a fool, I'm sure Angela told me but...' 'It's Lawson,' he said with that grin of his. 'Nice to meet you, Mr Lawson.' 'And you, Miss Grey.' 'Are you based in London?' I asked for want to something to say, to stop him looking at me as intently as he did. 'Most of the time. Liz, is it possible... is there a chance that we could... have dinner or something? I promise I won't ask about anything,' he said with a rueful grin. 'I'm rabbiting on, aren't I?' I smiled. 'I'm staying with a friend in Notting Hill, Jeremy Bingham and his number is in the book.' We chatted for a while and then after saying goodbye, I slipped into a taxi. He doesn't know, I told myself, he doesn't. 'Liz, America! That's wonderful! When will you go?' 'I don't know Mum, but at the speed Fiona works, probably soon.' 'Will I see you before you go?' 'Of course, Mum. I couldn't go away without seeing you. I might come up next weekend? Maybe come up on Friday...' 'Liz, that would be wonderful but Edward rang to tell me he and Angela may drop in next weekend. He's on some tour.' 'Oh,' I said quietly, 'I see.' 'Love, you are probably going to see them sooner or later.' 'I know Mum but he told me to stay away...' 'I decide who visits my house and I'm not going to have him tell me my own daughter cannot visit!' Mum's voice was firm and I knew it did not pay to meddle with mum when she used that tone of voice. I sighed. 'You're right, sooner or later I will. I'll come up next weekend, Mum.' 'Liz, are you sure?' Was I? Mum was right; it was time to face them. I wasn't ashamed of who I was and their opinion, I told myself valiantly, didn't matter to me. Even then I knew that was a lie. 'Yes, Mum, I'm sure.' As I put the phone down, I couldn't help but think I would be very glad when next weekend was over. Part 19: It shows. 'Do you want me to come up with you?' Jeremy meant it and I was almost tempted but knew it would not be the best way for Jeremy to meet my mum. 'No,' I smiled, 'I'll be fine.' 'Are you sure?' Dean asked, sensing I was worried about something. 'We wouldn't mind. We could just drop you off at York and pick you up on Sunday. We'd go to swish B&B, have a nice weekend ourselves.' 'Well...' 'Liz, how are you going to get there?' Jeremy demanded. 'I thought train again...' 'We're taking you,' Jeremy said, Dean nodded, and that was that. Later, I took Jeremy aside and said, 'Jeremy, it may get ugly up there, Edward might say things and Dean...' '...won't go in the house and neither will I unless you ask me.' He put his hand on my arm. 'Liz, you're like a sister to me, I couldn't bear the thought of any harm coming to you, you know that.' I opened my mouth but Jeremy quickly said, 'don't say it,' he said with a small laugh. 'I know you're not my dear sister but, somehow, I just know we're close and it makes me feel better, ok?' I nodded. 'Ok,' and we hugged. We met with Fiona on Wednesday to talk about the contract and she took us through it line by line. It all seemed remarkably fair. 'We sign this and we agree to provide two albums?' Cleo asked. 'Yes,' Fiona said, 'and then further negotiations depending on the sales. I think it will be doubtful, if the sales were reasonable, that Soul Atlantic would let you go. I have to tell you that Vernon is very impressed by you and he's a legend in the industry.' Fiona looked around at us. 'He wants to produce the album,' she announced and we blinked in shock.' 'Vernon does? Us?' Mandy asked. 'But he's produced the greats...' 'Yes, well, he wants to produce you but doesn't want to force it if you have someone in mind.' 'We've got tons of record producers hiding in our handbags,' Cleo said dryly. 'Course we'd love him to do it, right?' We all nodded excitedly. 'And the tour?' Mandy asked. 'It's not really a tour. Vernon wants you to perform at two venues and, if he can swing it, possibly appear on a television show to promote yourselves and any forthcoming album. Soul Atlantic will bear the cost, as it's a promotional tour. It's definitely in your interest to do it.' 'What about Toby?' Cleo asked in a small voice. Fiona darted a look at us and I spoke up. 'Fiona, we think it's wonderful that Cleo and Toby are together so don't make eyes at us.' For a moment, Fiona was taken aback and then laughed. 'Sorry Liz, I've just seen problems before, but you lot seem to be so open about everything that, frankly, I'm amazed. It's nothing to do with me and you will need someone to run your trip and to liaise with the recording studio, the record company, hotels and all the other stuff.' 'We need Toby,' Mel and Mandy said in unison and we all laughed. 'We're rather hopeless at that sort of stuff,' I said to Fiona. 'We definitely need Toby, he's good.' 'But can he get you to arrive on time, Liz,' she said dryly and everyone laughed madly at that. 'Is he that good?' 'I'm not always late,' I protested. 'Yes you are!' Sean rang Wednesday night and asked me to dinner on Saturday. I explained I was going to see my mother for the weekend at York. 'Will your brothers be there?' he asked. 'Yes,' I said slowly, 'Mum said Edward and Angela would be dropping in.' 'Is this an attempt to mend the break?' 'I hope so.' 'I wish you luck but I'm insisting on a dinner after you've swanned off to America for your jaunt.' 'Hardly a jaunt,' I said but I knew he was just teasing. 'But it would be lovely when I come back. 'Look... I can run you up there if you like.' I envisaged a scene with Edward telling me what he thought of me. And then the picture of Sean listening and, suddenly, I knew that wouldn't be a good idea. 'No, Jeremy is driving me, thanks all the same.' True to their word, Jeremy and Dean drove me to York Friday. There was no sign of Edward and Angela when we arrived so I took Dean and Jeremy in to meet Mum. It was amazing how well they all got on and after a cup of tea and a few more laughs, Dean and Jeremy said goodbye and drove off. As we waved goodbye, Mum said, 'Jeremy is such a lovely man, exactly how I imagined him when I spoke to him on the telephone.' 'Yes,' I said, 'he is.' We talked well into the evening about so much, covering so many topics and we just talked and talked. I don't think I had seen Mum laugh so much and she told me so many ribald stories Mum really had me giggling. Finally, we kissed goodnight and Mum held me for a moment, smiling at me and kissed me again before releasing me and we went to bed. Mum always woke early so she was reading the newspaper when I finally wandered into the sitting room. I had dressed casually and kissed her good morning. 'Morning, Mum.' 'Did you sleep well, dear?' 'Yes, like a log actually.' I looked at her and immediately sensed something. 'What's wrong, Mum?' She sighed. 'Edward rang and said they were on their way up. I told him you were here and he exploded.' 'Oh dear,' I murmured. 'I think he'll be in a foul temper when he gets here.' 'I can go, if you like Mum. I don't want to cause trouble.' 'Nonsense! You have a right to be here, I want you to be here. Now, a cup of tea and something to eat?' Time dragged on and I decided to get changed, to look my best. I chose a black skirt and a off the shoulder top that was a little low cut. Mum looked and said, 'I didn't realise what a big girl you were, Liz.' 'Mum!' 'It was a compliment,' she said mildly, using her walking stick to get to the kitchen. It was to take your own life into your hands to offer to help her to walk; she could be stubborn at times. I think we both heard the car at the same time and I stood near the mantelpiece and smiled nervously when I saw the framed photograph that Jeremy had taken in pride of place in the middle of the mantelpiece. Mum was sitting in her favourite chair, walking stick leaning against it and a calm expression on her face, eyes staring at the door though her glasses. The front door opened and Edward called, 'Mum?' Suddenly he was there, filling the doorway, overnight bag in his hand and his face white. Angela appeared behind him, peering over his shoulder and I saw her face was also strained and pale. 'Hello Edward, dear,' Mum said evenly. 'Angela.' 'Hello Mrs Stratton,' Angela said automatically in a low voice. Edward stared at me and I tried to smile. 'I thought I told you...' 'When did I ever listen to you?' I said lightly and he scowled. 'Hello Elizabeth,' Angela said softly and I remembered suddenly how I had told her not to call me Liz anymore. 'Hello Angela.' I tried to smile but she looked away, avoiding my eyes. 'Cup of tea?' Mum offered. 'I'll make it, Mum,' I said, quickly pushing past them into the kitchen. The house was small so I could hear every word as I made the tea with trembling hands. 'Mum,' Edward's voice boomed, 'how could you let...' 'She is my daughter, Edward, a daughter I am proud of,' she said firmly. 'I want her to visit me. It is your problem that you cannot deal with it, not mine and not Liz's. Now, sit down.' Don't cry, I quickly told myself as I spooned tea leaves into the warmed pot, not now, don't! 'Edward,' I heard Angela say, 'will you calm down? Look at her, she's beautiful!' 'But,' he hissed, 'she isn't a woman!' I moved to the doorway. 'And how do you know that, Edward?' I asked softly and their heads snapped around. 'How do you know I'm not a woman?' 'Because you're my...' 'What? I don't look like your brother, do I?' I stood next to the mantelpiece again, just for something to lean against and Edward who had refused Mum's invitation to sit, scowled at me. 'I've changed rather dramatically, don't you think?' I said, trying to keep it light. 'Yes but that doesn't make you a...' 'I think, Edward, that you should accept that I am and think of me as your sister.' He scowled and then his eyes dropped to my chest and back up again. 'Apparently,' I said walking back to the kitchen, 'your eyes don't know I'm not a woman because they keep looking at my boobies.' I heard Mum laugh softly and Angela giggle. 'That's ridiculous,' Edward spluttered. 'She is a big girl,' I heard Mum say softly and I could tell she was smiling. There was silence in the living room so I switched the kitchen radio on to give them some noise if they wanted to talk. I no longer wanted to listen and sang along with Stevie Wonder. I just called to say I love you. The kettle whistled and I poured the hot water into the teapot, loaded the tray and I was still humming when I brought the tray into the living room. As I bent to place the tray on the coffee table, Edward made a big thing about looking away and Mum and I glanced at each other with a small smile. 'I'll pour,' Mum announced and I sat down next to her. 'You look fantastic,' Angela said. 'Thank you.' 'You look different, something.' Now was not the time to start cataloguing my surgery so I smiled and said, 'I was pretty worn out when you saw me last, and ill,' I added and regretted it immediately when I saw her flinch and look away. 'I'm eating better, exercise and Jeremy keeps restyling my hair.' 'He's a lovely man,' Mum said handing a teacup to Edward who took it and scowled at me again. I chose to ignore it. Angela thanked Mum, took her cup and sipped it. I noticed she had an engagement ring on. 'Is that your engagement ring?' I asked. 'I haven't seen it.' 'Yes,' Angela said delighted and extended her hand so I could see it. 'This is really lovely,' I said, shooting a glance up at Edward who was still refusing to sit, 'this is very tasty, you must have helped him pick it out.' Angela glanced at him. 'Well, actually yes but Edward did like it.' We remained silent for a minute, the kitchen radio was playing and old song and it suddenly seemed loud. 'I saw your photograph in the newspapers...'Angela began but Edward suddenly exploded. 'Yes! What is going on with that chap Brennan? Does he know?' 'Know what, Edward?' I asked sweetly. 'You know exactly what I mean, that you are... were a man!' 'There's not much of a man left, I'm afraid. I seem to recall you telling Allan many times that he wasn't much of a man anyway,' I shot back. Edward darted a look at Mum. 'Well...' 'Kiefer and I are friends, that's all. Angela was there when we first met...' 'And he came back after you brushed him off.' Angela laughed and began telling Mum. 'Mrs Stratton, here's this bloke that all of the girls fancied because he was so famous and sexy and Liz... I mean Elizabeth doesn't have a clue who he is! So she gives him the cold shoulder! 'And he came back,' Mum smiled, looking at me over her glasses. 'Yes, well it was just a coincidence and then he came to the performance, that's all...' I said lamely. 'When are you going to tell him?' Edward demanded. 'That fellow is a great foot...' 'I think it's none of your business,' I said hotly, 'who my friends are! Just like it's never been my business to know which woman you've conned into have a shag!' I realised what I said. 'Sorry, Angela, I didn't mean...' 'It's all right, I know what Edward used to get up to.' Angela said it brightly but I knew it wasn't all right at all. 'I am really tired of this,' Mum suddenly announced in a firm voice. 'Edward, this is your sister. I love her, I'm proud of her and will stand by her. It's up to you to decide.' 'But Mum,' Edward said and then he looked at Angela. 'Angela, we should...' 'I fully support your mother, Edward. It's time for you to accept Liz and move on. She loves you...' 'She! I can't believe this has been inside Allan all these years, that he lied to me, to us, all this time!' Mum opened her mouth and Angela and I glanced at each other. 'Edward,' Angela said in a low voice, 'Elizabeth discovered this about herself because of me. And you, in fact, if you hadn't chased that woman to Budapest...' 'What? That's ridiculous...' 'I think we should go for a walk, Edward,' Angela said with a sad face, 'I need to explain some things, things I should have been brave enough to explain before.' Mum and I glanced at each other as Angela stood up. 'Thanks for the tea, Mrs Stratton.' 'You'll be back, won't you dear?' Mum asked, alarmed. 'I don't know,' she said softly and walked out the door. Edward looked at us and then followed her out. 'Well,' Mum said softly. They were gone quite a while and Angela returned alone. Immediately, I knew she'd been crying and she tried to smile. 'Edward's gone to the pub for a while, down at the local.' 'Cup of tea?' Mum asked as, we all knew, it solved everything. 'That would be lovely,' Angela smiled. 'How are you?' I asked softly as Mum vanished into the kitchen. She shrugged. 'I'm fine, I think. Things,' she said with a sad smile, 'haven't quite worked out as I planned at the beginning.' 'Nothing ever does.' 'How are Mel, Mandy and Cleo?' Angela sat down and I put down the magazine I'd been reading. 'Terrific. Cleo and Toby are going very strong.' 'Really? That's lovely for them.' 'Yes, we think so.' 'You were all fabulous at the performance, the little bit,' Angela said, lowering her head, 'that I saw.' 'Angela, I'm sorry I sang that bit at you...' 'No, I deserved it, it just rammed it home, what I lost, I guess.' Mum called out that the tea was ready and I went out to bring it in. 'I have to duck next door for a bit,' Mum said, glancing into the living room, 'give you time to talk.' 'Mum, you don't have...' 'You do need to talk, Liz,' she said firmly and limped away. Silently, Angela and I helped ourselves to tea. Suddenly, Angela burst out, 'Oh Liz, I'm so sorry for lying to you but I didn't know how to tell you, I thought you'd hate me for lying and...' 'Angie,' I said and smiled at how we were back to Angie and Liz, 'it's ok, I forgive you and I should thank you. If you hadn't done what you did... well... Liz Grey wouldn't be here.' 'I think she would have appeared sooner of later.' I shrugged. 'Maybe. Let's move on. We should be friends if you're going to be my sister-in-law.' 'Really?' 'Yes, really.' We gave each other a small hug and I think we both knew that we would be friends, but never again would we be best friends. 'Do Cleo and the others... do they know?' Angela asked. 'Of course, I had to tell them. They've been great.' 'And you're still staying with Jeremy? How is he?' 'Madly in love with Dean, they both drove me here and met Mum. I think Jeremy charmed her a little.' Angela smiled and then it slipped away as she sipped her tea. 'Are you still in love with Edward?' I asked gently. 'Yes,' she whispered, 'but I'm not sure if he loves me. I worry all the time about, well... you know...' 'Other girls?' 'Yes. Leopards don't change their spots, do they?' 'Possibly not,' I smiled, 'but I can't recall that leopard ever bringing a girl home to Mum.' She brightened at that. 'No? Never?' 'Never. How did he take it when you told him about Europe and everything?' 'I think I stunned him, I don't think he thought I was capable of... that... that stuff.' The front door opened and Edward walked in. 'Where's Mum?' he asked immediately. 'At Mrs Pratt's.' 'I think we should say goodbye,' he said and Angela went pale. 'I think we need some time to talk things through, Angela,' he said with a wry smile, 'we really do. I need to think as well. Let's find a Bed and Breakfast and have a cosy weekend.' Angela broke into a smile, kissed my cheek and then kissed Edward. She waved and took her bag out to the car. Edward slowly picked up his overnight bag and looked at me. 'Goodbye Elizabeth,' he finally said and I smiled. 'Goodbye Edward, take care.' He nodded stiffly. 'Will you be up here next weekend?' 'No, I'll be in America, I think.' He was surprised at that but just nodded and walked out the door. I was on the sofa, shoes kicked off and feet curled under me when Mum returned. 'Did Edward and Angela catch up with you?' 'Yes,' Mum said lowering herself into her chair, 'they explained and said goodbye. They said they needed time to think.' Mum looked at me over her glasses. 'And you and Angela?' 'We made up, we're friends but I don't think we'll ever be best friends.' Mum nodded wisely at that. 'And your brother?' 'He called me Elizabeth when he said goodbye.' 'Did he?' Mum broke into a broad smile. 'There's hope for him yet. Now, should we think about what we'll cook for tea?' 'I'll cook,' I said swinging my feet down. 'Don't look so surprised, I've learned a bit over the past year.' 'I can see that,' she said with a warm smile, 'it shows.' Part 20: His name is Sean. 'Ladies and gentlemen, all the way from London, England, the fantastic, Femme Fatale!' The club was packed and I was surprised to see some well-known faces in the audience as we played. It was a short set, but to be playing in New York was just unbelievable. 'Pinch me,' Mel had said as we walked to the stage, 'I don't believe this is happening, pinch me.' So we did. 'Ouch!' she had moaned, 'I'll bruise now.' The audience responded warmly to our first number, were applauding madly by the second and third and were calling out for an encore at the end. We came back and played a spirited version of 'Knickers' that left them wanting more. Vernon was very happy. 'That's a great start,' he said as he congratulated us. We sipped on fresh juice and watched him prowl around the room. Toby was seated on the floor next to Cleo's chair, with a note pad ready. He had done a fantastic job arranging everything although I was still a little peeved he had told me the flight to New York was leaving Heathrow an hour earlier than it was. 'You bloody lied to me, Toby Whitley!' I had said when I arrived at the airport. 'Liz,' he protested while the others fell about laughing, 'it was the only way I could make sure you'd be on time.' 'I am on time! In fact, I'm now bloody early!' 'Point of order, Liz,' Mel had said innocently, finger in the air as Mandy, seated next to her laughed. 'If the plane had gone at the time Toby told you, you would be, technically late.' She grinned at me and Mandy collapsed on Mel's shoulder laughing her head off while Cleo giggled. 'Sod off, Mel,' I had said haughtily, slumping into a seat away from them, 'you're no help!' Vernon explained that he had booked the Soul Studios for a week to record the first album and we all went quiet, listening. 'You'll need to decide what numbers you're going to do and what additional musicians you'll need. You'll also need to rehearse for a week or two so I've arranged a house with a rehearsal space, so you can get away and work.' 'Where?' Mel asked and we all knew she was hoping for something glamorous. 'Connecticut,' Vernon said. 'Where?' Mel's nose wrinkled and I smiled. 'It's close to New York,' Vernon smiled. 'When the album's done, I'll fly you ladies to L. A. and spring for a couple of nights in the swishest pad in Beverly Hills.' 'Really?' Mel asked delightedly. 'And what do the ladies have to do out there, Vernon?' Toby asked politely. Vernon nodded. 'There's a club, I was going to take it over, fly in critics and get Femme Fatale to perform their new album. Then it's party time and,' he said, 'shopping.' He knew what buttons to push and we all grinned excitedly. 'Work hard in Connecticut and I'll come out to listen before we go into the studios. I've given some sheets to Toby, just suggestions, baby,' he quickly added when Mandy opened her mouth, 'you decide, you decide.' Mandy nodded and Vernon smiled. 'The number you did for the encore was original, right?' We nodded. 'Great, we need more so try to come up with a few originals as well. What was that one called?' 'Knickers,' Cleo volunteered. Vernon wrinkled his brow. 'Knickers? Hey man,' he said to Toby, 'what does that mean?' 'Yes, Toby,' Cleo said sweetly, 'what does it mean?' 'Please do tell us,' Mel grinned. 'Actually Vernon, it's slang for women's pants.' 'Pants? Like those?' He pointed at Mandy's black trousers. 'I don't get it, man.' 'No,' Mandy corrected him, 'these are trousers.' 'Knickers are,' Toby explained, his face a little flushed, 'women's underpants.' Vernon grinned. 'You mean panties. I get it but,' he frowned, 'why call a tune...' 'We couldn't think of anything else,' Cleo explained, 'and it's indispensable like...' 'Knickers,' Mel supplied. 'Ok, I get it,' Vernon smiled. 'I think.' As we walked down the hotel corridor to our rooms, Mel, Mandy and I walked behind Toby and Cleo who were walking hand in hand. They had their own room while Mel, Mandy and I had separate rooms and, strangely I think we missed sharing as we kept popping in and out of each other's room. 'What are you going to do now Mel?' Mandy asked with a wink to us as we moved close to Toby. 'I thought I would wash my,' Mel said and the three of us said in unison in Toby's ear, 'panties!' Cleo laughed and Toby grinned. 'I'm comfortable with either term.' His face suddenly became serious. 'Now, you're not going to americanise the name of that piece, are you?' Mel smiled. 'I thought we introduce it as 'Panties' at our next gig? What do you think, Liz?' 'Sounds good to me,' I said, 'when in Rome...' 'It's a smooth number, maybe,' Mandy said, 'we should call it 'Silk Panties'?' 'We're going to bed,' Toby said stiffly and Cleo winked and giggling followed him in. I was still in bed when I heard the telephone ring. Rolling over, I pulled the pillow over my head and tried to ignore it and finally it stopped. 'Thank goodness,' I murmured and tried to return to sleep but the telephone rang again. 'Who is it?' I snapped grumpily and the operator apologised. 'I'm sorry Miss Grey but there's call from London...' 'London?' I sat up quickly. 'Who is it?' 'It's a Mr Brennan.' 'Oh. Put him through,' I said, running my fingers through my tousled hair. 'Liz? How's America?' 'Big and full of people with American accents,' I smiled. 'How's the football thingy?' He laughed at that. 'It's ok. I thought I'd call and see if you were ever going to come back.' 'I've only been away five days.' 'It feels like five years.' 'Oh my,' I said quietly. 'Dinner when you return or should I fly over there?' I laughed at the outrageous thought. 'Don't you have to run around a field somewhere chasing a ball?' 'Yes,' he sighed, 'I do. I'll call you when you return?' 'Please do.' 'Bye Liz.' The bathroom in the hotel room was huge and I enjoyed the bath for a little longer than I should have. I was dressed and brushing my hair when Mel came in. She was also fully dressed. 'Have you sent your bags down?' 'No, not yet,' I said and she looked around. 'Liz, you haven't packed!' 'I was just about to!' I protested. 'Here, let me help you, Toby's pacing up and down.' Furiously, she jammed my clothes in the bag. 'Fold them, please,' I cried out but she ignored me. There was a knock on the door and Mel opened it to smile sweetly at the Bellboy. 'The bag is right there, thank you.' 'You're hopeless, Liz,' Mel sighed, linking arms as we walked to the lift. 'Late again, Liz,' Toby grumped, arms folded. Mel jumped in. 'Toby, Liz was ready, there was a mix up with the Bellboy.' 'Really?' Toby asked eyeing us and we both looked innocently at him. 'I've been up for absolute hours!' I said. 'Don't overdo it, Liz,' Mel whispered from the side of her mouth. Vernon had arranged for one of those overly huge American limousines to take us to the house he had leased for us and we watched New York through tinted windows as we drove past. 'Enrico called me this morning,' Mel announced to Mandy and I. 'Really?' Mandy said, 'that Tony called me as well. It was a short conversation.' They both looked at me. 'Yes, Kiefer called me,' I admitted. 'That's a bit of a worry,' Mel said and Mandy nodded. 'It's a bit suss if you ask me,' Mandy said. 'Do they do everything together?' I laughed at that. 'I hope not.' 'Tart,' Mel teased and we settled back to watch the countryside. The house was surrounded by a high brick fence and even had a security guard at the gate. 'What's all this, then?' Cleo asked. Toby shrugged. 'This is America, I guess Vernon takes precautions.' Vernon had also arranged a cook, a grinning black woman by the name of Adele who turned out to be fantastic. The house was huge, we all had bedrooms to our selves and the rehearsal area was a long room with a white piano at one end. 'Don't go much for white,' I murmured. 'Hey, just think Liberace,' Mandy laughed. 'I'll dust of my sequins.' We set up and then sat around the piano with sheets of music that either we had brought with us or Vernon had given us. We started working through the pile Vernon gave us first, discarding many until we agreed on 'Embraceable You'. We put it to one side to rehearse later and Mandy said, 'any originals?' Mel and Cleo shook their heads and I said shyly, 'I've been working on something but it's not very good.' 'Let's hear it.' Mandy said. 'What's it called, Liz?' Mel wanted to know. 'Lonely Days.' I gave them the sheets and began playing the introduction before singing. Lonely days and wicked ways Measure me to who I am and life shines brighter every day. I remember my lonely days Fortune has changed my lonely ways No longer drifting No longer dreaming No longer lonely days I finished and opened my eyes and the three of them were staring at me. 'That's a keeper,' Cleo said, 'it's beautiful, Liz.' 'Doesn't sound like anything else? I'm afraid I may have inadvertently picked up some other song.' 'No,' Mel said, 'it sounds brand new to me.' 'And me,' Mandy offered. 'I suggest a clarinet solo, Mel.' 'Maybe, with Spanish guitar again?' 'I've got a song,' Mandy said slowly, 'I think it will be fabulous when Liz sings it.' She gave us the sheet music. 'Boz Scaggs, wasn't he...' Cleo said. 'It's from an old album but this is great.' I read the first verse and Mandy urged, 'try it Liz,' so I sang the first verse. I'll be long gone by the time you make up your mind Got to make my own way It sounded good even to my ears and, after completing the first verse, I was surprised when Cleo and Mandy joined in on the chorus. yes, I'm gonna get up and make my life shine I'm gonna get up and make my life shine I've made up my mind, I'm gonna make my life shine 'That was great,' Mel grinned when we finished. 'Sorry to sing,' Cleo said 'but I couldn't help it.' 'No, I think it was good,' I said, 'I think everyone should sing the chorus.' 'I think we'll need another horn to play this,' Mel said. 'We'll need another sax player.' 'We'll tell Toby later to let Vernon know.' We then agreed on 'At Last' and 'The Shadow of your Smile' and began rehearsing them all before selecting what we would record. We continued to rehearse during the day and relaxed over the meal at night that Adele prepared. 'Please, Adele,' Mandy protested when Adele put more food on her plate, 'this is too much.' 'You could use a few more pounds Miss Macklin.' 'I think I'm putting on more than a few pounds,' Mel moaned after Adele had left. One night I just couldn't sleep, tossing and turning as my mind just would stop working. So much was happening with the recording, the club dates and everything but I also knew the time was getting closer when I would make the final decision. Sighing, I decided I wasn't going to sleep and tossed the covers back. Dressed just in the large tee shirt and knickers that I sleep in, I wandered towards the kitchen, thinking warm milk or something might make me sleep. I made a mug of warm milk and sipping it began to idly wander back. The house was silent and the rooms were lit by the moon and the out side security lights and as I passed the rehearsal room, the piano seemed to beckon me. I sat down behind it and began to softly play, just improvised and it relaxed me. Somewhere from within my mind, an old Paul Williams song emerged, a song that I had always considered was a typically beautiful Paul Williams love song. Now, when I ran through the lyrics in my mind, I saw that it could be interpreted differently. It was a long bow, but it was two in the morning. 'Let's see if I can remember how it goes,' I murmured and began playing it softly, stopping and starting again when I went off on the wrong tangent until I had it reasonably correct. Somehow I remembered all the lyrics, began to play the introduction and then sang. Brighter than sunshine reflected on water The smile of the lady is gracious and warm Though she's a woman She laughs like a child at play And the lady is waiting At the end of my day I sang with my eyes closed, seeing the words as somehow relating to me, telling me to keep on and to be sure. Sharing my secrets and wishing my wishes A whisper of summer is there in her smile Softly reflecting our love in the thing that we say And the lady is waiting At the end of my day And the lady is waiting At the end of my day I played the last few notes, closed and stared at the keys, thinking. The lady was waiting, I couldn't turn back, I had to go on to be true to me. 'Wow,' a voice said and I looked up to see Mel seated on the floor near the door. She got up, dressed in a tee shirt and pyjama bottoms and sat next to me on the stool. 'That was incredible, Liz.' I smiled wanly and tinkled the piano. 'Did you write that?' I laughed at that. 'Goodness graciousness, no, it was written by Paul Williams, fabulous composer.' Mel wrinkled her nose. 'Paul Will...' I played the first bars of 'We've Only Just Begun'. 'Oh, I see.' She smiled. 'Couldn't sleep?' she asked after a minute. 'No, too much going on in my head.' Mel slipped her arm around me. 'Liz, we all care about you, if you need to talk, knock on our doors and we'll get up.' I looked at her, suddenly warm. 'Really?' 'Of course and any door would do, either of us would be up in a shot if you were upset or worried about something.' 'Thanks Mel,' I said softly. 'Do you want to talk now?' I smiled and shook my head. 'No, I feel better now. Thanks.' 'It's a great song,' she said, 'play it again.' 'Well...' 'Go on, so I can get a feel of it... it's lovely.' 'Oh... ok,' I smiled and began to play with Mel's arm loosely around my shoulders. We rehearsed all week and when Vernon came out to listen, he agreed with all of our selection for our first album to be called 'This is Femme Fatale'. Back in the hotel in New York, we began to live in the Soul Studios laying down track after track. Keith Coltrane was the saxophone player brought in to play with Mel on the horn section on 'I'll be Long Gone' and when he was introduced to Mel, we could see the sparks flying from both sides. 'Not another horn player,' Mandy groaned, 'she collects them.' 'Maybe this one she'll keep,' I said watching Keith and Mel practising together. 'I think she's met her match. Look, he's showing her stuff.' 'He is too,' Mandy said in wonderment, 'and she's listening.' 'Could be a keeper,' we said in unison. The album was completed at last and we were all exhausted but happy with the result. I think all of us were a little homesick by then but we had agreed to play in L. A. and Toby somehow got us on the plane and we flew across America. It was in everyone's thoughts that we were flying further from home. Toby had arranged for some English newspapers to be brought to the hotel to read when we woke up. As usual, I was still in bed when the others were up and there was a tap on the door. 'Go away,' I muttered but the door opened and Mel and Mandy crept in. Mandy pulled the curtains and then they both sat on the edge of my bed. 'Liz?' Mel said and I sensed something was up. 'What?' I asked groggily, turning over, 'what's up?' Mel held out a newspaper and I saw a photograph of Kiefer kissing a woman. 'Oh my,' I murmured, taking the newspaper and reading it. Apparently, she was a film star and they were at it all night. 'Sorry, Liz,' Mel said. 'Why be sorry?' I said softly, 'there was nothing there really. I never expected anything,' I said brightly, throwing the newspaper onto the bed. 'He's a shit, Liz,' Mandy said. 'Get dressed, we're going shopping and Vernon's paying, apparently.' 'Really?' I said in delight. 'I'll be down in a minute.' They walked to the door and Mel asked softly, 'you ok?' 'Right as rain,' I smiled and they left. I rolled back onto the bed, hugged the pillow and cried silently. 'Ok folks,' Vernon said into the microphone and the audience fell silent. 'I've just produced an album that will be, I'm sure, a big jazz hit this year. The group is Femme Fatale and they're not afraid to venture into new territory. The album will be out early next year and they are going to play the tracks for us tonight. Guys and gals, this is Femme Fatale!' The applause was lukewarm as we walked out, waved and we went straight into 'Femme Fatale' with no pause before beginning 'So Far Away'. The applause was a little more spirited at the conclusion of that and I felt every eye on me as I sang 'Embraceable You'. Embrace me, my sweet embraceable you! Embrace me, irreplaceable you! Just one look at you, my heart grew tipsy in me; you and you alone bring out the gypsy in me! More applause and 'Autumn in New York' 'Summertime' and 'Stormy Weather' brought the house down. Mel introduced 'Knickers' and then I introduced 'Lonely Days'. 'Dance the Old Fashioned Way' had people swaying in time and the room was entirely silent as we performed 'You're My Thrill.' We finished with a full-blown version of 'I'll Be Long Gone' with Keith Coltrane joining us on stage as the audience stood to listen and watch. The applause was huge as we held hands and bowed. Journalists swamped us and by the time we could escape my jaw was hurting from smiling for all the photographs. Vernon arrived with champagne and toasted Femme Fatale. 'I think we have a hit on our hands,' Vernon smiled, raising his glass. 'I'm afraid I couldn't swing a TV interview so it's all free time now. So, what would you like to do now? Disneyland, Hollywood, Universal Studios?' We looked at each other and Toby spoke for us. 'I think, Vernon, we'd just love to go home.' 'Really?' He looked at us in surprise but we all nodded, we all wanted to get back to London. He laughed. 'Ok, but you'll be back. I've asked Fiona to book a venue in London and we'll record you live. It will be your second album and will take the pressure off, allow you to focus on your next direction.' We nodded, we were just too tired to argue. They were all waiting for me when I came down to the lobby, following the Bellboy down with my luggage. 'I'm not late, am I?' I asked anxiously. They all laughed. 'No, for the first time, you're not, we're just keen to get to the airport.' Jeremy was waiting for us and after hugging and laughter, making arrangements to catch up soon, Mandy, Cleo, Mel and I parted and Jeremy took me home. 'It's good to be here,' I sighed, sinking into the sofa after giving Jeremy the gifts I had purchased in L. A. for him. 'I love these, thanks, my dear,' he said and kissed my cheek. 'Poor dear, you look exhausted.' 'I am but there's one other thing, Jeremy. Here.' He took the envelope and looked at it. 'What on earth is this, my dear?' 'Open it.' He did and gasped when he saw the cheque and the amount it was made out for. 'Liz! What on earth...' 'Part of my advance, I'll pay you more as soon as I get it. Thank you, Jeremy, thank you so much.' He wiped his eyes. 'You're a crazy woman, I didn't expect you to pay me back, not at all...' 'I always expected to, Jeremy but I'll never forget what you did for me, still doing for me. Emma would be proud of you.' I kissed his cheek and hugged him. Suddenly, I yawned again. 'You are tired. Why not a nice bath and then into bed for as long as you like.' 'Sounds wonderful,' I murmured and began to walk up the stairs. 'I'll just call Mum and let her know I'm back.' 'Of course. Liz,' he called as I trudged up the stairs, 'a certain man has been calling to find out when you were returning?' 'I'm not interested in talking to him,' I snapped. Bloody football players! 'I told him you would call once you got over the jet lag.' I whirled around. 'Jeremy, how could you! That bloke has been in the papers kissing girls all over the bloody place and...' There was a twinkle in his eye and a cheeky grin. 'His name is Sean and I left the number on the table next to your bed. Goodnight dear,' he said with a small laugh.