The Strength of a Promise

PROLOGUE

The Strength of a Kiss

Previously published by Author House

Lauren and David’s story began on New Year’s Eve 1966, in The Strength of a Kiss. They had lived all their lives in a small village in the fens of Cambridgeshire. Lauren is only sixteen and David twenty-four, when a New Year kiss jolts David into the startling discovery of his love for Lauren. At the same time, Lauren is stunned by the kiss; promoting an awakening of her sensuality. Fate takes a hand, however, as David finds an ex girlfriend is expecting his baby, and feels compelled to marry her. Quenching his love for Lauren for the sake of his daughter, he tries to make the marriage work.

Lauren is devastated when David marries Janet, but attempts to carry on as if nothing is wrong. It is a marriage of convenience; and after the birth of their daughter Rachel, David and Janet soon realise they will never be a happy family.

In an attempt to forget David and the loss of his friendship, Lauren spends a holiday in Cumbria with her brother-in-law’s large family, where she strikes up a friendship with one of his brothers. Returning to the village she begins a photography course in the nearby town of Monkton.

Also in ‘The Strength of a Kiss’ Lauren’s fourteen year old brother Mark, becomes involved with the wrong crowd and ends up in trouble with the police. He receives a caution and promises he will stay away from them in future. The gang retaliate, beating Mark up, and threatening his young niece and nephew. Stuart is incensed at the threat to his baby son and daughter, and along with David and his brother-in-law, Tom; they take the five men on in a fight.

As 1966 progresses, David’s love for Lauren continues to dominate his thoughts and he is overjoyed to finally discover Lauren feels the same way. They begin an illicit relationship, knowing her sister Kay would not approve. Having brought Lauren and Mark up since losing their parents eleven years ago, Kay was very protective.

Their love is further strengthened when Lauren is assaulted by one of the same gang who beat her brother Mark up. As Lauren is dragged into an alleyway, her friend runs for help, stumbling upon David and Tom in the empty high street, alerting them to Lauren’s plight. David arrives in time to prevent Lauren from being raped and pummels her assailant Freddy Weston, breaking his nose. Freddy promises David that he will get even with him one day and stumbles away. David is so upset he reveals his love for Lauren to his sister Sheila and

brother-in-law Tom.

A few days before they are in court, Freddy threatens Lauren; saying if she does not drop the charges, he will find her one day and finish what he started. This threat, along with the assault, results in Freddy being sentenced to eighteen months in prison.

Lauren and David agonise over telling Kay about their relationship, knowing she will oppose them; agreeing to wait until after Christmas. When Christmas and New Year are over, Lauren begs David to wait until Janet leaves him. By February 1967 David puts his foot down, insisting on telling Kay. Lauren and David argue and fall out. David believes Lauren does not love him enough and his life falls apart.

In May 1967, David’s sister Sheila intervenes, arranging a meeting between him and Lauren. Lauren accepts David is right and agrees to tell Kay; convincing David of the strength of her love.

Initially, Kay is shocked and angry by their revelation, believing Lauren too young to be in love and the age difference too much. Kay knows David’s marriage is virtually over, but this was not how she wanted her young sister to find love. Kay’s husband Stuart convinces her to listen to David and Lauren. Kay is anxious not to fall out with David’s family; they have been part of their lives for so long. Their mother’s were best friends from childhood and when Kay’s parents died, Rose and Harry Miller took Kay, Lauren and Mark into their own family.

After a great deal of soul searching Kay agrees for Lauren and David to see one another, stipulating they must be discreet until David sorts out his marriage; something he must do as a matter of urgency. ‘The Strength of a Kiss’ ends with Lauren and David ecstatic at having Kay’s blessing; believing everything else is surmountable.

CHAPTER 1

It is May 1967. Seventeen year old, Lauren Stanton slips through the wrought iron gates of Monkton College, heading towards Monkton town centre. Monkton is the nearest town to Lauren’s small village in the fens of Cambridgeshire. Happiness welling inside at thoughts of David, she smiled to herself. Is it really only two days ago, that her sister Kay surprised them, by agreeing Lauren and David could see one another? No one expected her to give in so easily. Now, Lauren is on her way to meet David and they are going to look at engagement rings. Striding jauntily along the pavement, her striking blue eyes shone with suppressed excitement.

How had Kay reached such a momentous decision? Lauren had been convinced her sister would never budge from her initial disapproval. When David and Lauren first told Kay of their love, she had been shocked and upset; angrily refusing to listen. For, not only was David eight years older than Lauren, he was also married with a baby daughter. Although David and Janet only married because of the baby, and were now leading separate lives, they still shared the same house. In addition to this, Kay refused to accept Lauren truly loved David, believing her sister too young at seventeen. Having brought Lauren and her brother Mark up since losing both their parents in a car accident eleven years ago, their welfare meant everything to Kay; she wanted the best for them.

However, Kay knew if she did not sanction their love, not only would she lose her sister, she would also jeopardise the friendship between hers and David’s family. Their mother’s had been best friends and after the accident David’s mother took Lauren, Kay and Mark into their family circle. Kay was just seventeen at the time, but insisted on staying in their own home, despite offers from various family members to provide them with a home. Kay was adamant she would take care of her two siblings.

David’s parents, Rose and Harry Miller watched over them all and with just two houses in-between them, the two families spent a lot of time together. David and his sister Sheila were like brother and sister to them; this is why it was totally unexpected for Lauren and David to fall in love. From a young age Lauren idolised David and although there was eight years between them, David had always allowed Lauren to monopolise his time, never tiring of having her around.

Despite her reservations, Kay decided she had no choice; Rose Miller was like a second mother to them. How could she risk losing so much?

David was waiting outside the jewellers and he stepped forward as Lauren approached, her long, honey-blonde hair swaying loosely as she bounced along. Lauren’s heart tripped at the love shining in his mahogany eyes and she smiled tremulously.

Hello sweetheart. David kissed her briefly on the mouth. Mm, you taste good.

Lauren laughed, hugging his arm. I can’t believe we’re actually looking at rings, she enthused.

David smiled tenderly into her upturned face. Me neither; I never dreamed Kay would accept us so easily. David thought of Kay and how angry she had been at first. All those weeks we agonised over telling her.

Yes, she surprised me, too, Lauren agreed. I thought we’d have a lot more trouble. I was really worried it would break up the family. Lauren admitted.

Yeah, so was I, David revealed.

I’m so happy David, Lauren grinned widely.

Mm, me too, darling. David slid his arm around her waist, pulling her against him, as they stood gazing at the rings on display in the window. See anything you like?

No, let’s go inside, Lauren urged, taking David’s hand.

He glanced briefly around before pushing open the glass door and entering the shop.

Across the road, unseen by David, a smartly dressed woman watched them through the window of a coffee shop. As soon as they disappeared into the jewellers, she emerged from the café, hastily crossing the road. Peering through the window of the jewellers, she saw Lauren trying on various rings with stones in, holding them up for David to admire. The woman stood transfixed, an expression of disbelief on her pale drawn face.

This is lovely, so dainty; I do like this David. What do you think? Lauren smiled warmly up at him, holding her hand towards him.

David took her hand, peering at the single diamond sparkling on Lauren’s finger. I love it. He smiled into her eyes. Whatever Lauren decided he would love, as long as he was buying it. His engagement ring on Lauren’s finger was all that mattered.

Five minutes passed with David and Lauren unaware of being watched. Then the woman at the window turned abruptly, crossing the road once more and re-entered the small tea room; her mind whirling. If she had stayed any longer, she would have been even more shocked to see David trying on signet rings.

Is there anything you like? Lauren asked him, leaning towards him and peering at the display of rings.

Mm, I’m not sure. He pondered; trying unobtrusively to read the price tickets. He knew Lauren did not have much money, but she insisted on buying him a ring too. This one. He picked up a plain gold signet ring reasonably priced. I don’t want anything too fancy.

As he slipped it onto his finger Lauren leaned closer. Mm, that’s nice. David had removed his wedding band and the ring did indeed suit him; he was not one for fancy jewellery. Her heart full, she looked up into his face. Do you want that one?

He smiled tenderly at the blatant pleasure in her expression. Yes, but it’s a little too big.

I can order one in your size. The assistant told him. It should be here in a week.

Lauren and David, completely oblivious to the distress they had caused the woman outside, finished looking at rings and left the shop.

I really love that solitaire with the platinum shoulders, Lauren stated dreamily. It’s a pity they didn’t have my size. I really wanted to buy one today. She smiled wistfully at David.

His dark eyes softened with love. Yeah, but she did say it would only be five days. It’s not long to wait, he consoled. Halting on the pavement, he tilted her chin, kissing her lingeringly.

Mm, Lauren murmured. I wish I didn’t have to go back to college. Sighing softly, she said, we could’ve gone somewhere for the afternoon.

That would be lovely, David agreed. Never mind, I’ll see you later, we’ll spend the evening together.

As they strolled along hand in hand, neither were aware of being watched from within the café across the road; or that their bubble was about to burst.

Later that day, in the nearby village of Stitchford, Lauren’s sister Kay enjoyed a quiet cup of coffee, whilst her one year old twins, Lucy and James, were having a nap. A knock at the door startled her from her reverie and she hurried to answer it. To her surprise, David’s mother-in-law stood on the doorstep.

Hello Mrs Thomas, Kay cried. Is there something wrong? Is Janet okay?

Yes, Janet is fine, Mrs Thomas replied abruptly. Can I come in for a moment, Kay?

Yes, of course, I’m sorry, do come in. Kay opened the door wider allowing Mrs Thomas to step into the hallway. Despite Kay having auburn hair and brown eyes, the facial resemblance between her and Lauren was significant. They both had the same shaped mouth and oval jaw-line. Although Kay had dimples that appeared every time she smiled; inherited from her father Robert Stanton. Go through into the lounge. She told her visitor. Would you like a coffee? I’m just having one. Kay quickly made another coffee, puzzling as to what could have brought David’s mother-in-law to see her.

She did not have long to wait, as soon as she handed Mrs Thomas her coffee, Janet’s mother inhaled deeply as if gathering steam. Kay, I’m sure you’re not aware of what is going on, but I had to speak to you. I saw David and your sister Lauren in Monkton at lunch time. They never saw me, but I watched them going into a jewellers and Lauren was trying on engagement rings. She paused for breath. I really can’t understand what is going on, David is married to Janet; surely he is not getting engaged to Lauren? How can he? What can they be thinking of?

Kay paled significantly, but she kept her cool. Oh, Mrs Thomas, I’m sure there’s a simple explanation for what you saw. Kay assured her briskly.

What? Mrs Thomas demanded.

Mm. I’m not sure. Are you sure it was engagement rings they were looking at? Kay asked, stalling whilst she fought for an explanation.

Yes, of course I’m sure. Lauren was holding them up for David to see; I saw them, Mrs Thomas returned. And David kissed Lauren twice; I saw him, she added heatedly. I know Janet and David’s marriage isn’t ideal. I know Janet spends a lot of time with her friends, but they need to work it out. I know they married for the baby’s sake, but marry they did and they are still married. Mrs Thomas pointed out forcefully.

I realise that, Mrs Thomas, Kay swiftly intercepted. I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about. We have known David a long time you know. We all kiss and hug him occasionally.

Oh, no, this wasn’t like that, Mrs Thomas shook her head. I know the difference between a friendly kiss and a loving one. I don’t know what David’s playing at, but there was enough scandal when they had to get married in a registry office. I don’t want Janet being the brunt of more gossip. And I certainly don’t want a divorce in the family. Mrs Thomas’s strong voice shook with emotion. If you knew what I went through bringing up my little girl alone, without the support of a husband, she sniffed, dabbing at her nose with a hanky.

I’m sure it won’t come to that, Kay attempted to placate her, feeling guilty and a little ashamed in denying all knowledge of Lauren and David’s relationship.

I knew you wouldn’t want Lauren being blamed for breaking up a marriage, Kay, Janet’s mother continued. That’s why I came to see you.

No, of course not, Kay agreed tersely. But I don’t believe David and Janet are happy anyway. They seem to be leading completely separate lives.

Mrs Thomas’s face hardened and her mouth became a thin line. That’s not the issue here. David is still married to Janet and he should respect that. You need to talk to your sister, she and David must stop this nonsense now; if it continues Lauren’s reputation will be ruined, I will make sure of that! She finished vehemently.

Kay stared at Janet’s mother, taken aback by the venom of her threat. Well, of course I will speak to Lauren when she comes home, but I don’t like you making threats about my sister! I am sure there is nothing in what you saw.

Humph! Well I hope you’re right. My son-in-law has no business looking at rings with another girl; it’s outrageous! Mrs Thomas warned. Whether you like it or not, I meant what I said, Kay.

After her visitor left Kay paced up and down the kitchen. What on earth had prompted David and Lauren to look at engagement rings already? After all she had said about being discreet! And kissing her in public – didn’t David have any sense? He promised he would be careful, she fumed; how could they be so irresponsible?

Kay continued her pacing, her anger warring with panic; for despite consenting to their relationship, Kay still hoped Lauren’s desire to be married to David might diminish; she still believed her sister too young to be truly in love. She accepted David loved Lauren; and this would be enough to sweep Lauren off her feet. Having always shared a close friendship; to believe she was in love with David, would be so easy.

Kay sighed heavily; everything was careering out of control; and now Lauren’s reputation was in jeopardy.

CHAPTER 2

By the time Lauren arrived home from college, Kay’s anger had taken hold; she did not waste any time in tackling her. Lauren, I’ve had Janet’s mum here today! What on earth possessed you and David to go shopping for an engagement ring? I told you to be discreet didn’t I? Mrs Thomas said she saw David kissing you; a proper kiss, she said, in full view of anyone. After all I said about being careful; didn’t you and David listen to anything I said?

Lauren caught her breath, staring at her sister in horror. Janet’s mum saw us? We never saw her, where was she?

She was in a café and she saw you both go into a jeweller across the road, Kay informed her. Lauren, I’m very angry with you both, after all I said about being careful! What were you thinking of?

I’m sorry, Kay, we never saw her. We wanted to buy an engagement ring as soon as possible. I wasn’t going to wear it all the time; we did mean to be careful. Lauren explained. We never saw anyone we knew. How did she know what we were doing in the jewellers if she was across the road? She frowned.

She said she crossed the road and looked through the window. Kay returned sharply. Probably because she saw David kissing you.

Oh no; we never saw her, Kay. Lauren exclaimed. I didn’t expect to see her in Monkton.

Why? She often goes to town, Kay stated unrelentingly. If this is an example of how careful you’re going to be, then I’m not very impressed. Mrs Thomas is sure something is going on, how can you possibly have this relationship with David now? She is threatening to ruin your reputation.

Why? Lauren cried in alarm. Kay’s words filled her with foreboding.

Because she believes you are breaking up David’s marriage, of course, Kay stated.

But I’m not; they don’t have a proper marriage! Lauren exclaimed.

I know that, Kay retorted, but in Mrs Thomas’s eyes and the rest of the village they have; they are still married.

Oh, but Kay… Lauren began.

No more Lauren, Kay halted her sister. Wait until David comes. I take it you’re seeing him tonight?

Yes, Lauren answered. What are you going to do? She asked anxiously.

Wait and see; I’ll talk to you both together, Kay told her firmly.

Lauren stared at her sister, but sensing it was best not to push her; she kept quiet.

When David arrived that evening, he was met by a very subdued Lauren. What’s wrong, love? He asked, frowning as he took her into his arms.

Mrs Thomas saw us in Monkton lunch time going into the jewellers. She’s been to see Kay this afternoon. She said she saw us kissing and looking at engagement rings.

Oh no, David groaned. Blast! I looked all round, how come I never saw her? Where was she?

In a café across the road, Lauren explained. David, I’m so worried, I think Kay’s going to stop us seeing one another. Lauren’s lip quivered.

Is that what she said? David cried, his arms tightening across her lower back.

No, but she’s very angry, Lauren told him, her upturned face close to his. She said she’d talk to us both together. I’ve been on tenterhooks waiting for you to come. She revealed.

Okay. Let’s talk to her. David said firmly, taking Lauren’s hand and entering the lounge.

Kay was waiting; she had put James and Lucy to bed a little earlier, in order to have no distractions.

Kay’s husband, Stuart spoke first, before Kay had a chance to. Hello David. His tone denoted that David was in trouble, his expression anxious as he darted a look at Kay. His smoky grey eyes regarded David and he pulled a wry face. Stuart’s short, thick sandy hair was sticking up, as if he had been running his hands through it.

Hi Stuart. David nodded, and then turned directly to Kay. Kay, I’m so sorry, he began. I promise it won’t happen again. We…

Kay cut him short. It’s too late for that David, the damage is done. Janet’s mum knows; she saw you kissing Lauren. And she saw you studying engagement rings! Kay accused, her voice rising.

I’m sorry Kay, David repeated. We never saw her.

No, we’ll be more careful in future, Lauren promised, tightening her hold on David’s hand.

Kay eyed her sister. Sit down, she told them. When they were seated she took a deep breath and shook her head. It’s too late, Lauren, Mrs Thomas knows; she’s threatened to spread it all round the village that you’ve broken up David’s marriage.

But, you know that’s not true, Kay, David intervened. My marriage never really worked; Janet never wanted to be a wife or a mother; I told you that.

That’s not the point David. Everyone will believe what Janet’s mum says, and I’m not going to have Lauren’s name bandied all round the village like that. Her reputation will be ruined. You know what it’s like here, Kay stated.

I don’t care, Lauren declared, setting her chin stubbornly, as she recognised where this was leading.

Well I do, Kay’s voice shook. I did warn you both didn’t I? And I never gave you permission to get engaged did I?

David’s heart plummeted. I know I’m sorry Kay; we meant to keep it secret for a while, it was only meant to be between Lauren and me. We weren’t going to wear our rings all the time. Please give us another chance, he implored.

I’m sorry David, Kay shook her head, her anger abating at his genuine remorse. It’s too late. You’ll have to sort your marriage out first; I don’t want Lauren’s name linked with any divorce or separation. You must work something out with Janet.

I could get a divorce now for adultery, David disclosed suddenly. I know Janet’s been with other men; she practically admitted it. It wouldn’t be too hard to prove.

No! Kay exclaimed. Don’t do that! Janet might retaliate and cite Lauren, accusing you of the same.

David made a choking sound. That’s ridiculous, she couldn’t do that!

Of course she could, Kay retorted impatiently. Then, as if the thought had just occurred to her, Kay’s eyes narrowed. Would Janet have any grounds for accusing you of adultery? She held her breath as she waited for David’s response.

What? He cried aghast at her insinuation. David heard Lauren’s soft gasp and glanced swiftly at her. Tears flooded her eyes and her lip trembled, as she gazed at him in consternation. David pulled her into his side, before turning back to Kay. Of course not! What do you think I am? You know I’d never hurt Lauren.

Yes, I do know that, but I also know your marriage is over; and you’re in love with Lauren. You’re twenty-five David and you’ve been used to regular sex. How do I know what you’ve been up to?

Kay! Stuart exclaimed. That’s a bit much, isn’t it? This is your sister and David we’re talking about.

Kay had the grace to waver a little, but shook her head and opened her mouth to speak.

David beat her to it. "How can you even think that of me, Kay? I have never, ever, touched Lauren in such a way." Despite his heated declaration, he felt a twinge or guilt at how extremely close he had come on a couple of occasions.

Kay refused to be swayed by David’s reproach. Well, you went behind my back all those months, seeing Lauren and lying to me. How do I know what you’d do? Her grey eyes flashed.

I thought you’d forgiven us for that, David responded quietly.

Kay sighed. Yes, I’m sorry; I thought I had too. It still rankles that you kept it hidden for so long whilst continuing to visit regularly, she admitted.

I’m really sorry Kay, I can’t change that, but I can assure you I’ve never taken advantage of Lauren, he told her fervently. And how am I to sort out my marriage if I don’t divorce Janet?

You’ll have to talk to her; convince her you’d both be better off separated. Make her see you have to move on with your lives; that she’ll be happier on her own in a place in town, near all her friends. Kay stated. Once you’re separated and Mrs Thomas sees Janet’s happy with her life, she may accept your marriage is over; without even involving Lauren.

Mm… David seemed unconvinced.

Anyway, I’ve made my decision; this is what I want to happen. She turned her attention to Lauren. You will have to go out with other boys and let the whole village see you.

No! Lauren cried.

Yes, Kay returned firmly. You must go to the village dance with a boyfriend. It’s the only way to stop any rumours spreading. You and David are to keep away from each other and make it seem that anything Mrs Thomas might say is untrue.

How long for? Lauren demanded.

As long as it takes, Kay answered. David will have to talk to Janet; sort his marriage out. Only after your marriage is over will I agree to you going out with each other again.

Oh Kay, Lauren wailed, tears streaming down her face. What about our rings? We’ve ordered engagement rings. She turned to David in dismay, clutching his hand.

The rings will have to be cancelled, Kay told her firmly. You shouldn’t have ordered any in the first place.

Hush, David squeezed her tightly. Its okay sweetheart, don’t cry. We’ll get through this. He tried to sound reassuring, but tentacles of fear gripped him; if Lauren went out with other men, would she still want him when he was free? It could take a while. The end of my marriage could take a while, he said aloud. If we do this for six months and Janet is still here, won’t you reconsider giving Lauren and I another chance; if we promise to be discreet?

Kay sighed heavily. Oh, I don’t know, David. We’ll have to see what happens; was all she would allow.

David sensed her weakening and took advantage. Ok, we will do as you say, he began, but if Janet refuses to budge after six months, please say you’ll reconsider. He pressed. If we promise to be very careful.

I said I’d have to see, Kay replied a little impatiently.

I don’t want to go out with anyone else, Lauren argued. I love David and want to be with him now.

You should have been more careful then, Kay retorted. Then, her voice softening, she said, Why don’t you go out with Chris for a while, you like him. Date him properly; I know he’s asked you.

David kept quiet; he could feel Lauren slipping away from him already. Chris Forrester was a friend of Lauren’s on her photography course in Monkton College. Last autumn, whilst Lauren was recovering from a brutal assault by a local man, Chris had visited often. David met him several times; and once when he was leaving Lauren’s house, they had a lengthy conversation together. They discussed how they might help her overcome her fears. Since Freddy Weston’s attack, she had been too afraid to venture outside. David recalled with clarity what Chris had said to him afterwards. – "One day Lauren will wake up and realise there is no future for her with you. And when that day comes I will be here, for I have the advantage; I am not married. Lauren will turn to me, as I am her friend. That’s when I take over. Mark my words, he had said, My time will come."

That prophecy rang through David’s mind; had Chris’s time come?

Chris was certainly a good friend. He had been with Lauren when she was threatened by Freddy Weston a few weeks after the assault. They had been leaving a dance hall in the nearby town of Monkton late one evening. With only two days to go before they were due in court, Freddy and a couple of his friends approached her whilst she waited for Stuart to collect her. Unfortunately, Stuart’s car broke down on the drive from Stitchford village. So Lauren, her friend Stephanie and Chris ended up waiting on the pavement long after everyone else had dispersed. Lauren had been glad Chris was with them. Especially when Freddy warned her that: If she continued to press charges against him, then one day he would find her and finish off what he had started. Despite being only one man against three, Chris had punched Freddy angrily, sending him flying into his friends. Luckily a police patrol car arrived and Freddy and his friends swiftly left.

David arrived shortly after this, having driven to Monkton in place of Stuart. The shock of seeing Chris cuddling Lauren protectively; had shaken David, despite knowing the reasons why. Since that time Lauren and Chris’s friendship often worried him; and the thought of her going out him, made David extremely uneasy. Chris was the one person he would be afraid of Lauren dating.

For another half an hour Lauren continued to argue stubbornly with Kay. Until Stuart intervened and suggested a break. Why don’t you pop upstairs to see if James and Lucy are okay love, while I make us all a cup of tea?

Mm? Oh… Yes, okay, that would be nice, Kay attempted to smile at her husband and failed miserably. As she left the room and climbed the stairs, she took advantage of the respite, to reflect on the evening’s arguments. She was getting nowhere with Lauren; she sighed. David, she knew, would agree to her plan; she had glimpsed the resignation in his eyes. A flash of guilt surfaced, had he guessed what was in her mind? Did he realise she secretly hoped Lauren would tire of waiting? With David no longer showering her with love and affection, and their relationship devoid of excitement; Kay prayed her sister’s ‘infatuation’ would die a natural death.

However, Kay accepted she would have to give a little in order for Lauren to agree to her plan. So when she returned downstairs, she waited until they were all seated, then leaned forward in her seat. Okay, I have been thinking some more. You know we have to quash Mrs Thomas’s suspicions, don’t you? She addressed Lauren.

Yeah, Lauren nodded sullenly.

Well, this is the perfect way to do that, if you go out with Chris, she’ll think she’s mistaken. Isn’t that right, David?

I suppose so, he allowed reticently.

But… Lauren began.

Kay held up her hand. Listen; if you do this for six months and Janet still refuses to leave, then we can talk again about you and David seeing one another. She smiled lopsidedly at David.

David perked up. Do you mean that?

Yes, Kay nodded. We’ll see what happens in six months. But, in that time you’re to stay away from each other, except when any of the family is around.

David smiled, hope flaring - Could Lauren’s love survive such a separation? Bearing in mind she would possibly be going out with Chris. Gazing into his love’s expressive blue eyes, David searched for an assurance that it could.

Isn’t that a bit like using Chris? Lauren asked uncertainly.

Kay flushed a little. Not really, people go out together and then break up all the time. She reasoned.

Yes, but this isn’t quite the same, Lauren persisted.

Well, if you feel uncomfortable doing that, you will have to go out with someone else, Kay returned.

Lauren gazed soulfully at David, drawing on his strength. Stifling a sigh, she nodded. "Okay, I’ll do as you say, but I can still talk to David when I see him can’t I?"

Yes, of course, but no spending time alone together, Kay warned.

If I see him in the street can we stop and talk?

Well, I don’t expect you to ignore one another. All I want is your promise that you won’t meet anywhere on your own.

Oh, one more thing, Kay put in, I think it’s best if we don’t say anything to your Mum and Dad when they come home tomorrow, David. Let’s leave it, at least until the six months are up.

David looked at Kay; his parents were visiting his mother’s sister on the coast and had been away when he and Lauren disclosed their love to Kay. Was it really only two days ago? It seemed so much longer. He sighed deeply; such a lot had happened in so little time. Mm, that might be best, he agreed aloud.

Lauren chewed her lip pensively; she had been so looking forward to telling Aunt Rose and Uncle Harry their news. Now everything was ruined; there was no news to tell. Sighing heavily she finally accepted defeat, turning to David. You think Kay’s right, don’t you? I should go out with someone else for a while?

David brushed her hair from her face, tangling his fingers in her long blonde mane and gently caressed the back of her neck. Swallowing visibly, he nodded. I think it will work. Once Janet’s mum sees you have a boyfriend, she will question what she thought she saw. He tried to smile. Our love should survive six months. Unsure whether he was making a statement or reassuring himself, he squeezed her hand, aware that once he let go it could be a long time before he held it again.

Suddenly, David knew he could not leave like this. Turning to Kay he said, Can Lauren and I just have this evening, if we stay here? He asked boldly. Can we pretend this hasn’t happened and begin this tomorrow? Please Kay.

Kay hesitated, her heart softening as she realised her sister was giving in. As long as you stay here, then, she conceded. But only for tonight; after tonight when you come here, you must behave as just friends; don’t forget. Otherwise it won’t work.

Yeah, okay, thanks Kay, David forced a smile. Let’s go into the kitchen for a while. He urged gently to Lauren.

Kay watched them go with a deep sigh, tension easing from her.

Don’t worry, love, Stuart told her. It’ll be okay.

In the kitchen, David closed the door behind them and turned to Lauren, gently taking her face between his hands. Her arms were around his waist. Her body pressed full length against his hard frame. Sweetheart, this is only a temporary setback. We will still be together one day.

Lauren tried unsuccessfully to smile. Just when everything was working out; I thought it was too good to be true. Six months sounds like an eternity. How will I survive all that time without you?

David slid his thumb under her chin in a firm caress. Running up over the roundness of her chin and finally across her lips. You’ll survive. The question is will I? He murmured.

"Do we have to do it this way David? Why can’t we pretend to go along, but meet in secret? If we’re extra