My Life Lies In The Past

[blizzard18]

CHAPTER NOTE: Flashbacks present in this chapter are highlighted in BLUE

CHAPTER 62: BACK TO WHERE IT ALL BEGUN

8:30PM

“Jim” Julie called out. “Here are the results of Mr. Martin Bartlett that you asked for.”

“Thanks Julie” Dr. Jim Winston replied, taking the large A4-sized envelope in his hand. Opening the envelope, Jim picked up a couple of X-Ray sheets and placed them on the Light box. Looking at the results, Jim noticed something on the image that shouldn’t be there. He then suddenly realised that what Martin had identified as a simple headache was actually something else. Something much worse.

“Oh no! This is bad, very bad!” Jim whispered to himself.

+++++

“Here are your Apple Pies” The waiter announced, placing the plates on the table in front of Gina and Rachel.

“Thanks” Rachel replied. “If Tony doesn’t hurry, then I’m sorry, this is all mine!”

“Speaking of Tony, he’s been in the restroom for quite a while” Gina replied. “What’s taking him so long? I hope he’s alright.”

+++++

Meanwhile, Tony was standing outside 105 Kingfisher Street, after having been dropped of by the Taxi. The sky was now pitch black from the night, only the very few street lights gave a dim glow of the front of the house. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out the Key that he found earlier that day in Gina’s bag.

“Well, I’m back” Tony whispered to himself. “Back to where it all begun.” Taking a deep breath, Tony slowly made his way up the pathway towards the front door.

Turning the key and the door knob, Tony entered the house for the first time, since that long, terrible night when he was only ten. Slowly closing the door behind him, Tony quietly walked through the hallway, into the living room.

Looking at the mantelpiece above the fireplace, Tony picked up a photo frame. It was a picture of his mother. A tear slid down his cheek.

“I miss you, mum” Tony whispered. “I miss you so, so much. I never knew that the time we said goodbye to each other at the door was going to be our last.” Placing the frame back, he headed to the kitchen. Looking at the cupboards that hung on the wall above, Tony noticed one of the shelves was slightly crooked and uneven. He then suddenly had a flashback:

“I’m sorry Dad, I didn’t mean it. It was just an accident” Tony looked at the chunks of glass scattered across the kitchen floor. Twelve drinking glasses were broken, including his father’s expensive beer mug.

“I TOLD YOU TO STAY OUT OF THE KITCHEN!” Kent yelled as he slowly rolled up his sleeves and walked towards him. Tony crouched down on the corner, scared as he looked up at his father. He could see the fury in his eyes.

“I’m sorry Dad.” Tony began to cry. “I just wanted to grab my Toy soldiers that mum left on the shelf and then the glasses.......”

Tony then headed down the hallway, into his old bedroom. Sitting down on the bed, he thought about all the many terrifying, sad things that happened in the house, since he was young. Looking at the table next to the bed, he saw his Teddy Bear sitting on the top, next to the lamp. Picking it up, Tony stared at it. He remembered all the many times that he would hug it when he was scared or afraid...

Tony ran from the kitchen, through the hallway and into his bedroom, locking the door behind him. He hid under the covers of his bed, hugging his teddy bear, crying.

“Open the door!” Kent yelled out.

Placing the Teddy Bear back on the table, Tony left his room and made his way to his parent’s room next door. Entering the room, he noticed the room was in a complete mess.

“My God!” Tony gasped. He realised that the mess must have been caused during the time that Kent had attacked and attempted to murder Brenda. Looking over to the right-hand side, Tony saw a couple of picture frames, sitting on the bedside mirror. Looking closely, he saw that each of those frames were a picture of his father. Picking up the frames, Tony threw it violently against the wall, smashing the glass into pieces.

“I HATE YOU! I HATE YOU!” Tony cried. He then suddenly stopped when he heard a noise coming from the other end of the house.

“WHO’S THERE?” a voice called out. Tony suddenly got up and hid at the corner of the room. He heard footsteps banging on the wooden floors, louder and louder on each step.

The door to the bedroom slowly opened. A man entered the room. Turning on the light, the man looked around and stopped suddenly when he spotted Tony crouched down on the corner. Tony looked up and was shocked to see who was standing right before him.....

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Title: Diagnosis)

Who does Tony encounter at the Holden Childhood Home?

Dr. Winston gives Martin a shocking diagnosis.

[blizzard18]

Here's the next chapter.

and the mystery person is..........

CHAPTER 63: DIAGNOSIS

Tony looked up at the man. He was shocked at who he saw. The man, too, was stunned to see him crouched down on the corner.

“Uncle Andrew?” Tony gasped.

“Tony?” Andrew said in shock. “My God! After all these years!” Andrew rushed over towards his nephew and pulled him into a tight hug.

“What are you doing back in Alice Springs?” Tony asked.

“I heard about your Mother. I’m so, sorry mate.” Andrew replied. “I’m sorry if I frightened you just then. I was just staying here to take care of the house until after the funeral.”

Andrew then helped Tony back up to his feet.

“It’s been so long since you and Kate were with me” Andrew said. “I was always thinking of you. I was worried about you when I heard that Kate was killed in Broken Hill. I mean, after all these years, how have you been?”

Tony sighed. “It’s a long story, Uncle Andrew.”

“Come, let’s go to the table. I’ll make some Tea” Andrew guided his nephew out of the room.

+++++

7:45PM (NT)

A male waiter walked past Gina and Rachel’s table. Rachel signalled to him.

“Excuse me. Can I ask you something?”

“Sure” the man smiled.

“My fiancé, Tony Holden has been in the restroom for a while” Rachel said. “I’m not sure if he’s sick or something. Can you go in and check if he’s OK?”

“Sure, no worries” the man replied. Placing the plates back in the Kitchen, the man headed towards the restroom.

“I wonder what’s taking him so long” Gina wondered. “We don’t wanna be late for our meeting with Matt.”

After a couple of minutes, the waiter returned to their table.

“I’m sorry Miss, there was no one in there.”

“What?” Rachel questioned. “Are....are you sure?”

“I’m sure. Sorry” the man replied.

“If Tony’s not there, then.......where can he be?”

+++++

8:45PM

Dr. Jim Winston entered Martin’s room, holding a clipboard in his hand.

“Hello Martin, I’m Doctor Jim Winston.”

“Hi” Martin weakly replied. “How....how did I end up here?”

“You don’t remember?” Jim asked. “You collapsed at the Diner, and as you were brought here, one of the paramedics reported that you mentioned something about a headache. You were in and out of consciousness. Anyway, we did some scans, and I have the results right here with me.”

“What’s the result.” Martin asked. He noticed Jim looking serious.

“Why are you looking at me like that? Surely it’s something minor. It’s just a headache, right?”

“It’s more serious than a headache” Jim replied. “Martin, the tests and x-rays conclude that you have a Brain Tumour.”

+++++

At the House, Andrew and Tony were at the Dining Room. Pouring two cups of Tea, Andrew took it to the table and gave one to his nephew.

“Thanks” Tony silently replied. “Anyway, where were we?”

“We were up to the part where you returned home from the Hospital” Andrew said.

“Oh yes” Tony continued. “I came home from the Hospital after the small heart attack. The doctors ordered me to rest, and that’s what I did. At that point, I thought everything got back to normal. But then the same night I found Hugo knocked out near the front door, and as I tried to wake him up, I felt something hit me from behind, and then everything went blank.”

“And then?” Andrew asked.

“When I woke up, I found myself inside this warehouse. I tried to move, but my hands were tied to a chair. Then I looked up and I saw Dad staring right at me, smiling” After hearing that, Andrew gasped, covering his mouth with his hand.

“MY GOD!........WHAT DID HE DO?”

“He.......he threatened to kill me” Tony replied. “He said that he would set the whole place on fire if I didn’t believe him.”

“Believe what?” Andrew asked.

“He claimed that Mum didn’t treat me right when I was young, that I was too spoilt.” Tony replied. “He said that he was the one who taught me what was right and what was wrong.”

“OH MY GOD! I CAN’T BELIEVE HE SAID THAT!” Andrew shouted in anger. “He was such a troublesome brother when we were young. He pretty much failed school, and now he has the nerve to say to you that he taught you right from wrong?” Tony noticed that Andrew was now frustrated, beginning to yell.

“MY GOD! HE TOOK UP THIS DRINKING PROBLEM, WHICH WOULD’VE LED TO HIS AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOUR AND HE CLAIMS THAT HE RAISED YOU UP CORRECTLY? I MEAN...WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON HIM, I’LL......”

“Calm down, Uncle Andrew” Tony pleaded. Instead, Andrew stood up and banged his hands on the table. Tony jumped up a little in shock.

“HOW CAN I CALM DOWN, AFTER WHAT YOU’VE JUST TOLD ME? AFTER WHAT HE DID TO YOU IN THAT WAREHOUSE? I KNEW THAT MY BROTHER WAS A HORRIBLE MAN, BUT I NEVER, EVER THOUGHT THAT HE WOULD STOOP SO LOW THAT HE WOULD TRY TO KILL YOU!” Noticing that Andrew was breathing heavily in frustration, Tony rushed over to his side and held onto him.

“Stop, Uncle Andrew! Calm down. Just relax. Here, take a seat” Tony guided his uncle to the seat. “I’ll get you a glass of water”

+++++

8:00PM (NT)

“Where are we going?” Rachel asked, hopping into a taxi.

“Driver, can you take us to 105 Kingfisher Street, please?” Gina said, hopping in next to Rachel.

“What? Where? Why?” Rachel asked, confused.

“Listen. When I went back to my room to look for Tony, I noticed some of my papers that were in my bag lying on the ground behind the chair. It then occurred to me that perhaps someone went through my bag.”

“You think Tony went through your bag?” Rachel questioned.

“Well, he was the only one that came into my Hotel room.” Gina replied. “Anyway, I had this key in my bag for the front door to our Childhood home, and when I noticed that it wasn’t there, my suspicion is that Tony took the key and went to the house.”

“The strange thing is that I remember Tony telling me throughout the whole flight that he dreaded on coming to Alice Springs, let alone the house where he lived.” Rachel spoke. “I mean, if that’s what he told me, then why on earth would he go to the house, especially by himself?”

“I just hope he’s there and he’s alright” Gina replied. She then turned her attention to the driver. “As fast as you can, please driver.”

+++++

“A Brain Tumour!” Martin said. “Are you sure?”

“The x-ray definitely indicates that” Jim replied. “I’m sorry, I haven’t got any better news.”

“Wow” Martin said, shocked. “But how can I have a tumour? I’ve always tried to eat healthily and keep myself active.”

“Why don’t you tell me a little about yourself?” Jim suggested. “Perhaps we can find out what could have caused the tumour.”

“Well, I was born in Western Australia about 58 years ago, then after I finished a degree in education, I moved around from Perth, to Fremantle, to Albany, then to Adelaide in SA, and then all the way over to Sydney and taught in a school as a substitute teacher, then I got promoted for my work and I moved to Summer Bay to do teaching there, eventually ending up as the principal.”

“What subjects do you teach?” Jim asked.

“I’m a qualified science teacher” Martin answered. “I’ve been a science teacher for over thirty years and........wait. You don’t think that.........” Martin suddenly realised something.

“In science class, I do a course with the students involving using chemicals. It’s the student’s favourite topic, and I try to do some fun activities with them when we have free time between other topics. You don’t think that my exposure to the chemicals for over thirty years as a science teacher is the cause for all this, do you?”

“Exposure to chemicals is one of a number of things that can lead to a brain tumour” Jim replied. “What you’ve just told me is perhaps the most likely cause in your case.”

Martin took some time to think. He began to speak again.

“So what happens now?”

“We need to operate on you to remove the tumour” Jim replied. “He have a qualified surgeon now on standby, and they’re going to make some preparations.”

“What? You mean, I need the operation now?”

“If you don't have it today, or tomorrow at the least, you most likely won’t survive by next week. I’m sorry, Martin.”

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Title: Regrets)

Andrew is consumed with guilt over Brenda’s death.

Irene, Leah, Annie and Ruby are stunned at Colleen’s idea to attract more people into the Diner.

Charlie and Richard discuss their relationship.

A stranger books a room at the hotel with the sole intention of attending Brenda’s funeral. Who can it be?

[blizzard18]

CHAPTER 64: REGRETS

9:00PM

“Here we are!” Richard opened the door to his newly repaired Apartment.

“Wow” Charlie exclaimed. “They’ve put new floors, repainted the walls and everything – all without making one single mark on your furniture. Very professional.”

“Well, let’s hope that the termites hate the new look, so that they won’t come back in again” Richard laughed. “Come, take a seat and I’ll open up a bottle.”

“Thanks” Charlie replied.

Pouring some wine onto two glasses, Richard returned to the sofa, handing one glass to Charlie.

“So let’s talk about us” Richard started the conversation.

“What’s there to talk about?” Charlie asked. “I mean, we’re just friends, aren’t we?”

“There’s plenty to talk about” Richard replied. “I mean, Watson’s obviously seeing the two of us as a couple for some reason.”

“Well I mean, we have been doing stuff together much more than we used to this past week” Charlie noted.

“Yeah but I mean, we’re working together........as friends, right?” Richard asked. “There’s nothing wrong with that, surely?”

“Of course not” Charlie replied. “Watson’s just being silly.”

Richard noticed Charlie shivering.

“You must be cold. Here, take this” Richard grabbed the rug next to him and wrapped it around Charlie.

“Thanks” Charlie smiled. As Richard fixed the rug, Charlie stared at him. Richard saw her eyes directly pointing at him.

“You OK, Charlie?”

“I’m fine” Charlie whispered. “It’s just..........it’s just.....” Charlie and Richard leaned forward to each other, sharing a kiss.

+++++

8:15PM (NT)

“Tony, thank God you’re OK” Rachel said, hugging her fiancé. She and Gina had arrived at the house and were now in the Living room.

“Why did you leave us at the hotel?”

“I’m sorry, Rach” Tony replied. “I should’ve told you. I know, you said you wanted me to open up about how I feel. I’m sorry.”

Taking their seats in the Living room, Andrew came out of the Kitchen with a tray of biscuits and a pot of tea. Gina noticed the base of the tray was decorated with patterns of flowers.

“Sturt’s Desert Rose” Gina noted. “That was mum’s favourite flower, and it’s the flower on the Northern Territory’s flag.”

“I remember Brenda telling me that a long time ago” Andrew replied. “Your mother was such a lovely person. I can’t believe that she died, because of what my Brother did to her.” Gina noticed that Andrew was getting upset.

“Andrew? You alright?” Gina asked. Andrew got up from his chair and turned around, hiding his face from everyone.

“I’m sorry.”

“What’s wrong?” Tony asked.

“I feel so guilty........so guilty” Tony got up and placed his hand on his uncle’s shoulder.

“Guilty? Why?”

“Look at what’s happened?” Andrew cried. “You were abused, you were hurt, and your Father attacks Brenda, which eventually took her life! Throughout that time I never once tried to stop him, nor did I do anything to help your mother. If I stepped in, then Brenda would still be alive.” Tony held onto his uncle and hugged him tightly.

“Don’t say that” Tony said. “None of this was your fault. There is nothing to feel guilty about. You moved to Adelaide because you hated Dad, just as much as we did.”

+++++

9:30PM

“A Brain tumour?” Leah said. “Unbelievable.” She and Irene had made a quick visit to the hospital and were now walking back to the Diner.

“I know, love” Irene replied. “I just hope that once Martin takes that operation, that he’ll be OK”

“Let’s hope so” Leah commented.

As the pair headed towards the front door of the Diner, they heard a collection of old forties music playing inside.

“What on earth is that?” Irene asked. Entering the Diner, Leah and Irene saw Colleen dancing to an old Jukebox that was playing on the corner.

“Yoo Hoo, only me” Colleen called out.

“Oh my Godfather, is she drunk?” Irene questioned.

“Colleen, what’s with the Jukebox?.....in fact, how and what is it doing in here?” Leah asked.

“We asked you ONLY to watch the Diner, while Leah and I were at the Hospital.” Irene said.

“I know, I know. But I had this idea all week about the Jukebox” Colleen explained. “I think that it’s a great way to bring back our customers.”

“How did it get here?” Leah asked. “We were only out for about half an hour or so.”

“Well, when you ladies went out, I rang up Miles and Geoff and I got them to transport it from my van to here. It was very quick, no hassle at all.”

“Poor Miles and Geoff. What did they do to deserve this?” Irene muttered to herself. “Colleen, since when did you own a Jukebox?”

“I’ve always had one in my van” Colleen replied. “It has a CD drive inside, so you can play the music. I would always listen to the music back in my time. It’s so much better than the trash nowadays.” Irene and Leah rolled their eyes.

“Wow, I wonder what else Colleen has in her van” Irene muttered.

Hearing the CD playing the next track, Colleen got back behind the counter, dancing. The Jukebox was now playing a song by ‘Frankie Laine.’

“Oh, the good old forties” Colleen squealed. At that moment, Annie and Ruby entered.

“Hey Irene” Ruby greeted. “I’m glad you’re still open. I just wanted to discuss tomorrow’s shift schedule and.........what is wrong with Colleen?”

“Jukebox” Irene rolled her eyes. “It’s Colleen’s way of getting people back here." Annie chuckled at her comment.

“Well, I don’t like the music, but I’m happy to stay for a meal.”

“Me too” Ruby smiled.

“Great” Irene smiled. “Well, I guess I can cook again!”

+++++

10:00PM (NT)

Inside the Taxi, heading back towards the Hotel, Gina, Rachel and Tony were having a discussion with each other.

“Thank goodness Matt came over to the house to meet us” Gina commented. “Now, we can just have a quiet night, without worrying about anything else.”

“I’m glad it’s all sorted out for you two for tomorrow” Rachel replied.

“I just hope Uncle Andrew’s alright with staying by himself back at the house.” Tony said. “He still feels guilty about everything.”

“He insisted that he’s fine” Gina reminded him. “Besides, he said that he wants to stay there to take of the house, and we will see him again tomorrow at the funeral.”

“I’m sure he’s fine. He seems like a strong man, he’ll be OK by himself.” Rachel added. “And anyway, we have to get back because it’s now 11:30PM, and.......” Tony interrupted her.

“11:30PM?” Tony questioned, looking at her watch. “You need to set your watch one-and-a-half hours back for Alice Springs, since we have Daylight Savings in Sydney.” Rachel quickly adjusted her watch.

“Why can’t the world have one time zone?” Rachel rolled her eyes. Gina chuckled at her comment.

“Anyway, Jack and the crew should be here soon, so we can’t leave them worried when they arrive and we’re not there.”

“Yeah, you’re right” Tony smiled, holding onto his fiance’s hand.

Arriving back at the hotel, Gina, Rachel and Tony were speaking to the receptionist. In the foyer, a dark-haired man sat on the lounge, reading a newspaper. He looked up from his paper and saw the trio leave the desk, making their way to the elevator. Watching them carefully, the man saw them enter the elevator, the door closing slowly behind them.

At that moment, the receptionist called out from the desk.

“Excuse me, Sir. I have you key here.” The man got up from his seat, picking up his bag and taking the key from the lady.

“Thank you” the man smiled.

“Once again, I apologise for the delay in sorting out your room” the lady said. “By the way, here’s a form for you to fill out if you’re interested in our ‘Breakfast in Bed’ service.” The man thought for a second, then replied.

“Sure, I’d love that service, thanks.”

Filling out the form, the man handed it back to the receptionist. The lady checked the name that was written down.

“OK then, your room is number 126 on level three. Thank you, Mr. Austin. I hope you have a great stay here.”

“Thanks. By the way, Mr. Austin is so old-fashioned. You can call me Jeremy.”

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Title: Farewell)

Jeremy receives an unwelcome reception at Brenda’s funeral.

Alf helps an exhausted Dr. Winston to relax.

Jack plays a trick on Brendan.

[blizzard18]

Next chapter

CHAPTER 65: FAREWELL

The Sun rose over Summer Bay, marking a new morning.

9:30AM

As Alf was preparing the counter in the Surf Club, Dr. Jim Winston walked in. Alf saw him from the corner of his eye, all exhausted and pale.

“Strewth, Jim. You look like the living dead. What’s up?”

“Hey Alf” Jim groaned. “Can I have whatever alcohol you have so I can pass out or something.”

“Geez, mate. You can’t be serious?”

“I am serious” Jim mumbled. “I haven’t slept in over 24 hours. It’s been chaos all day at the Hospital, and then with the bus crash in Yabbie Creek, we we’re just flat out.”

“I see” Alf understood. “By the way, Colleen told me this morning about Martin. How’s he going?”

“The surgeon’s operating on him as we speak.” Jim replied. “Anyway, let’s get back to the Alcohol.”

“Come on, mate. Don’t be silly” Alf said. “I’ll get you a juice, then why don’t you go home and get some rest.” Jim shrugged his shoulders.

“Yeah, why not.”

+++++

10:00AM (NT)

In Alice Springs, Gina, Rachel and Tony were preparing themselves for the funeral. However in room 203, the boys were far from ready.

“Bandicoot, stop jumping on the bed!” Xavier ordered. “You can jump on your own bed when we get home.” Brendan ignored him and kept jumping. Lucas got up on the bed, standing beside his cousin.

“Tickle, Tickle” Lucas giggled, tickling him.

“OK, OK” Brendan laughed. “Brendan will stop now.”

“See guys, tickling is the best way to stop him.” Lucas said, but as he hopped down from the bed, Brendan began to jump again.

“Brendan fooled Luc!” Brendan laughed. At that moment, Jack entered their room.

“Ready yet, guys?”

“Far from ready” Hugo called out from the bathroom, where he was getting a shave. “Brendan’s keeping us delayed.”

“Hmm” Jack wondered. He then called his cheeky cousin.

“Hey Brendan. Would you like to come with me?” Jack suggested.

“Brendan wants to stay here!”

“But Brendan, if you don’t come with me, you won’t get to see what present Martha and I have for you next door.”

“Brendan wants to know!” Brendan squealed, hopping down from the bed and running out of the room to head next door.

“Quickly, give me his suit and everything” Jack whispered. Xavier and Lucas hastily gathered his clothes and handed it over to him.

“Good, now lock the door, so Brendan doesn’t come back in. I’ll get him ready next door.”

“Thank you!” Xavier blew a sigh of relief. As Jack walked out, Xavier closed the door, locking it.

+++++

About an hour later, everyone gathered outside the cemetery for the funeral. Tony and Rachel watched as a taxi pulled up. Uncle Andrew got out and headed towards them. He gave a hug to his nephew.

“Hey, Tony” Andrew said, sympathetically. “How’re you holding up?”

“Well........you know” Tony replied. Andrew nodded.

“I’m so sorry, mate.”

Gina approached Jack, who was standing with the boys near the back.

“Hey Jack, Xavier told me about the necklace you bought for Mum.”

“Is it OK?” Jack asked.

“It’s beautiful” Gina smiled. “Matt placed it around her neck.”

“I just thought that it would be a nice gesture from us to Grandma Brenda.”

“It was a lovely gesture, Thank you” Gina smiled.

Turning to her left, she saw Xavier and Hugo staring at a car that had just pulled up.

“Boys, what’s wrong?” Gina asked. She then noticed a man hop out. It was no other than her ex-husband, Jeremy Austin.

“What the hell?” Xavier angrily spoke, but as he was marching towards his father, Gina grabbed onto his arm, stopping him.

“Don’t, Xavier” Gina said. “Let me deal with him.”

Gina approached Jeremy.

“Gina!” Jeremy exclaimed. “I’m so glad to..........” Gina interrupted him.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing here?”

“Listen, Gina. I can explain” Jeremy pleaded.

“What is there to explain?” Gina demanded. Not wanting to cause a scene in front of the guests, she pulled Jeremy a fair distance away.

“We are Divorced! You left me with the boys! What on earth do you want from me now?”

“Gina, I want you back” Jeremy begged. “I love you.” Gina was outraged after hearing that.

“HOW DARE YOU SAY YOU LOVE ME! YOU WERE THE ONE WHO LEFT ME. I WAS THE ONE WHO SUFFERED, HAVING TO TAKE CARE OF THREE BOYS ON MY OWN. I HAD TO QUIT MY JOB AS PRINCIPAL OF BROKEN HILL HIGH BECAUSE I HAD TO STAY FULL TIME TO CARE FOR BRENDAN!”

“I’m sorry, Gina.” Jeremy apologised.

“Well, it doesn’t matter now” Gina continued. “That was back in Broken Hill. I want to know why on earth you’re here, now?”

“I want to pay my respects to Brenda” Jeremy explained. “She’s your mother, and I care for her, and you. Both of you.”

“ARE YOU KIDDING ME? YOU ARE PATHETIC, JEREMY!”

“Please, let me stay” Jeremy pleaded. “I want to prove to you that I still care for you.”

Gina paused for a second, then replied.

“OK Fine. You can stay. But once the funeral is finished, I want you to hop back into your car and disappear. I don't care where you go, you can drive up to the Moon for all I care, but I don't want to see you ever again. Do you understand me?” Gina walked back towards the guests, leaving Jeremy stunned.

+++++

10:30AM

Jim lay down on the couch in his house. He couldn’t even take a few steps to his bedroom as he was too tired, deciding instead to collapse on the couch as he entered. At that moment, the phone rang.

After a few rings, the answering machine activated.

“Jim, it’s Julie. I don’t know if you’re home or not, but I just wanted to let you know that the surgeon’s finished on Martin’s brain tumour operation, and it was a complete success. Call me when you get this message. Bye.”

“That’s great news, Julie” Jim smiled. “Now let me sleep!”

+++++

12:00PM (NT)

When everyone was gathered, the funeral ceremony began. After saying a few words and after Andrew read the Eulogy, The priest invited each of the family members to come forward to place a handful of dirt over the enclosed coffin.

Gina was the first to step up. Grabbing the soil from the ground, she dropped it on the coffin.

“Goodbye Mum. I’ll miss you, dearly” Gina sobbed. She took a few steps back into the arms of Uncle Andrew, who embraced her. Jeremy approached forward to comfort her, but was stopped by his son who was standing next to him.

“Don’t even think about it, Dad!” Hugo whispered in anger. Jeremy returned to his spot.

Tony was the next to drop his clump of soil. Choking back tears, Tony spoke to his mother.

“I love you, mum. I will never forget you. I miss you so, so much.” Andrew and Rachel held onto him as they took him aside. Unable to hold back his tears, Tony turned to his fiancé and sobbed on her shoulder.

Jack, Lucas and Hugo were next, followed by Xavier, who helped his older brother Brendan.

“Brendan loves Grandma!” Brendan said, dropping the soil clutched in his hand.

“I know you do, mate” Xavier whispered. “We all love her.”

As the Priest began to say the final prayers, Jack turned to Martha.

“Babe, you OK?” Jack whispered.

“I’m fine” Martha replied. “I’m just sad for Gina and Tony.”

“We all are” Jack replied. “Dad never deserved this!”

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Title: Tension)

Charlie and Richard take their newfound relationship to the next level.

Tensions rise between Gina and Jeremy.

Rachel becomes suspicious of Andrew. Could he be hiding something from Gina and Tony?

Who is the new cook at the Diner?

[blizzard18]

CHAPTER 66: TENSION

10:45AM

“Morning, Charlie” Richard smiled, placing a tray of food on the table in front of her.

“Morning” Charlie replied. “How long was I asleep?”

“You must have overslept, it’s 10:45AM” Richard responded. “You spent the night here, in my apartment.”

“Oh, Richard. I’m so sorry.”

“Hey, don’t apologise” Richard replied. “It was no trouble for me at all.”

“Thanks.............you’re so good to me, you know?”

“Well, I couldn’t think about anything else but that kiss last night.” Richard cheekily smiled. Charlie couldn’t help but giggle.

“Neither can I” Charlie smiled.

“So, what? Are we officially together now?” Richard asked, keeping his cheeky grin which always kept Charlie giggling.

“I suppose we can say that.” The pair leaned forward for a kiss.

“I have an idea” Charlie suggested. “Since we’re now in a relationship, why don’t we make it official?” Richard suddenly jumped up from the couch.

“WHAT? YOU'RE ASKING ME TO MARRY YOU?”

“No no no” Charlie laughed. “I’m asking you to make our relationship public.” Richard was dazzled.

“Charlie, we’ve only declared our relationship about 30 seconds ago and you want us to be public?”

“Why not?” Charlie cheerfully persuaded the man. “Besides, life’s too short and there’s so much to do, so now about being public........what do you say?” Richard stared at her, trying to hide his laughter.

“You are one crazy woman, aren’t you?”

+++++

11:00AM

There were now a few more people than usual in the Diner, compared to the previous day.

“Rubes, this goes to table six, and this plate goes to table twenty” Irene replied. Ruby walked out of the kitchen with the plates.

“Wow, I just can’t believe that were back in business” Leah smiled.

“I just can’t believe that Colleen’s jukebox did the trick” Irene replied. “Of course, though, Colleen eventually agreed to allow non-forties music playing in there!”

“Hey, I only agreed to it for the customers” Colleen called out. “But I still think that today’s music is trash.” Irene and Leah couldn’t help but chuckle.

Ruby returned to the kitchen with Warren following behind her.

“Hey Irene, Warren’s here. He told me he wants to talk to you.”

“er...sure” Irene responded. “Hey Warren, what can I do for you?”

+++++

1:00PM (NT)

Everyone headed over to the Holden Childhood House where Andrew, along with neighbours and friends had gathered refreshments for Brenda’s wake. In Tony’s old bedroom, Tony sat on the middle of the bed, his sons sitting on either side.

“So this house is where everything started” Lucas asked. Tony nodded.

“This is it.”

“I just can’t believe it” Jack said. Lucas turned to his father.

“Dad.......how did you find the courage to come back here?”

“I don’t know, mate” Tony replied. “When I came here on my own last night, I was looking around, trying to imagine what could have been a happy childhood for me. But instead, when I see rooms messed up and things broken, I’m only flooded with memories of what actually happened here at the house.”

“I’m sorry, Dad” Jack silently whispered.

“Hey, come here” Tony placed his arms around his sons and pulled them into a hug. “I love you both. I would never let anything bad happen to you, not like what happened to me.”

“I know, I love you too Dad” Lucas replied.

Back in the Living room, Gina, Rachel and Andrew were having a conversation.

“Thanks for organising this. It’s lovely” Gina thanked her Uncle.

“Don’t thank me” Andrew chuckled. “The neighbours did most of the work. I just provided this house for the wake.” Rachel saw one of the ladies place a large Apple Pie on the table next to the rest of the scrumptious treats.

“I need a slice of that!” Rachel silently squealed. “Excuse me.”

“Is Rachel addicted to Apple Pie?” Andrew asked.

“She must be” Gina laughed. “It’s her favourite dessert.”

Andrew looked over at the window and saw a man standing in the front lawn with Hugo, Brendan and Xavier.

“Hey Gina, isn’t that your ex-husband talking to your kids?” Gina looked out the window.

“Jeremy! What the hell?” Gina said in anger.

Outside the house...

“YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO BE HERE, AFTER WHAT YOU’VE DONE TO US!” Xavier shouted.

“Please, son. Let me explain” Jeremy insisted.

“Don’t bother” Hugo replied. “Besides, didn’t Mum tell you to leave straight after the funeral?”

“THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT I SAID!” Gina yelled, marching towards them.

“Gina, please just hear me out”

“Don’t bother” Gina replied angrily. “There is nothing to hear from you.”

“You have some nerve, showing up here” Xavier spoke. “Do you have any idea how much you hurt us, how much you hurt Mum when you abandoned us?”

“Do you?” Hugo asked his father.

“You have to understand that I had my reasons for leaving you” Jeremy replied. “But that was in the past. I’ve changed now. I love you.” Gina was now shaking in shock after hearing this. Struggling to speak, she directed her attention again at her ex-husband.

“YOU........YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY PATHETIC!...........YOU EXPECT ME TO....TO TAKE YOU BACK AFTER YOU LEFT ME?......AND YOU SAY THAT YOU LEFT ME BECAUSE YOU HAD TO? BECAUSE YOU HAD YOUR OWN REASONS?.........THERE’S NO WAY I WILL EVER TAKE YOU BACK. I HATE YOU!” Hugo saw that Brendan was upset.

“Xavier, take Brendan inside. He’s upset.” As Xavier guided Brendan back, Jeremy placed his hand on his shoulder.

“I love you, Brendan” Jeremy said. Xavier pulled his father’s hand away from his brother.

“DON’T YOU DARE TOUCH HIM!” Xavier yelled.

“Brendan doesn’t like Dad!” Brendan cried. Xavier placed his arm around him.

“Come on Bandicoot, let’s get away from him.”

Gina noticed Jeremy was now in tears himself.

“WHAT’S WRONG NOW?” Gina yelled. “FEELING SORRY FOR YOURSELF?.........AS A MATTER OF FACT, I DON’T EVEN WANT TO KNOW IF YOU SORRY OR NOT. I JUST WANT YOU TO LEAVE. NOW”

“I just want to explain Gina, please” Jeremy pleaded again.

“HEY!” Hugo shouted. “MUM ASKED YOU TO LEAVE, SO YOU BETTER LEAVE RIGHT NOW.”

Jeremy looked at his ex-wife.

“GET OUT, NOW!” Gina screamed. Jeremy, feeling defenceless against his son and his ex-wife slowly turned around and left.

+++++

The Diner was now becoming busier and busier.

5:00PM

“I still can’t believe Colleen’s Jukebox is bringing more people in here” Ruby commented.

“I know. It’s a big surprise for me too” Leah replied. “And I never knew that Warren Dean was a qualified chef!”

“Yeah” Irene said. “I mean, we gave him the trial this morning, but somehow, the customers must have spread the word about him. He is so fast and efficient – not that Roman wasn’t good. They’re both good.”

“True” Leah noted.

“Here we are” Warren called out. “Leah, this is for table one, Irene, this for table five and Ruby, this one’s for table eighteen.”

“Wow! That was fast!” Irene exclaimed. “Pity the man who fired you before.”

“Oh well” Warren smiled. “Their loss, our gain. We’ll make this Diner the best one in Summer Bay, I promise!”

Charlie and Richard entered and took a seat on an empty table.

“Hey Charlie, can I ask you something?” Richard asked.

“Sure.”

“Are we OK? I mean, we’re not rushing too much or anything, are we?”

“Not at all” Charlie smiled. “By the way, when are you going to talk to your Brother about this? I mean, we did decide to take our relationship to the next level, which is going public."

"You mean, you persuaded me, and I eventually gave in" Richard smiled.

"Well..........yeah" Charlie chuckled. "But Perhaps we should’ve told Warren first before deciding on anything.” Richard held onto her hand.

“Don’t worry” Richard smiled. “I’ll tell him.......actually, after we eat, how about we go over to his apartment and tell him the news ourselves? That way, he knows, without having to find out himself.”

“Yeah, good idea” Charlie replied.

The two leaned forward to share a kiss. Suddenly, Warren headed over to the counter and stood shocked when he saw his Brother and the Senior Constable. He then quickly headed back to the Kitchen.

“What the hell.......Richard and Charlie?” Warren whispered to himself.

+++++

Nightfall had come for the small town of Alice Springs.

8:00PM (NT)

Back at the house, Gina, Rachel, Tony, Jack and Martha were seated in the Living room, whilst Lucas, Hugo, Xavier and Brendan sat in front of them beside the coffee table, silently playing cards. Martha read her watch.

“It’s getting late” Martha exclaimed. “I think we should head back to the Hotel.”

“Yeah, good idea babe” Jack replied. “It’s been a long day.”

“I suppose we better head off too” Tony replied.

“I think I left my bag in your room” Rachel said. “I’ll just grab it, and then we can go.”

“Rach, can you grab mine too?” Gina asked. “It’s also in there.”

“Sure”

“Thanks, Rach. Come on boys. Time to go.”

Rachel headed down the hallway and opened the door to Tony’s room. Entering, she noticed Andrew crouched down on the floor near the bags, searching her wallet. He jumped up at the sight of his nephew’s fiancé staring right at him.

“ANDREW? WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU’RE DOING?” Rachel gasped. “THAT’S MY WALLET!”

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Explaining Everything)

Andrew admits his hidden secret to everyone.

The Police arrive at the Holden Childhood home. But why?

Warren is concerned about Richard and Charlie's relationship.

[blizzard18]

Next chapter

CHAPTER 67: EXPLAINING EVERYTHING

Rachel and Andrew made their way to the living room.

8:05PM (NT)

“Guys, Andrew has something to tell you.” Rachel said. Everyone looked up at Andrew.

“Please, Rach. Don’t make me do this” Andrew whispered.

“Go on, they have to know. Tell them what you told me.”

“Know what?” Tony asked. “Uncle Andrew, what’s going on?”

Andrew took a deep breath, then began to speak.

“Guys, I haven’t been entirely truthful with you.”

“What do you mean?” Gina asked.

“The reason I’m here is not only because of your mother’s funeral, but also it’s because I can’t go back to Adelaide.”

“What? Why?” Tony asked, looking worried.

“The........the Children’s centre went bankrupt and I lost my home” Andrew replied. Everyone stood shocked after hearing this.

“How on earth did that happen?” Martha asked.

“Financial problems” Andrew responded. “We were losing money fast, and we were in a lot of debt.”

“Debt?” Gina asked. “By how much?”

“Over half a million dollars” Andrew replied. “I couldn’t pay up, so I had to sell the house to them to cover the debt. Then after I found out about Brenda’s death and that Kent had fled the town, I came here to stay, knowing that no one else was living here. I couldn’t stay in Adelaide. I was pretty much homeless. I used whatever was left of my money for the bus trip here.”

“My God, Uncle Andrew!” Tony exclaimed. “Why didn’t you tell us?”

“You guys were busy preparing for Brenda’s funeral. I didn’t want to worry you with more bad news.”

“Don’t say that!” Gina said. “You’re family, and we can help you.”

“I’m sorry. It’s just........I......I have to go get some air.” Andrew replied, hastily walking out of the house.

“Uncle Andrew, wait!” Tony called out. But Andrew had already shut the door.

+++++

5:15PM

“Wow, this is delicious!” Charlie said, feasting on the plate of food that was in front of her.

“Very nice” Richard replied. “Although, for some reason, I can’t help but think.....”

“Think what?”

“The food here tastes a lot different from before.” Richard wondered. “It’s like I was back living in Warren’s apartment, and he was cooking dinner for me. This food tastes like Warren’s cooking.”

“But that’s impossible” Charlie said. “Didn’t you say that Warren’s a cook down in the restaurant in the city?”

“Not anymore. He was fired” Richard replied. “But I can’t help but wonder that this food..........excuse me for a moment.”

Richard headed for the Kitchen and was stunned to see that the new cook was no other than his big brother, Warren.

“Well, well, well” Richard chuckled. “I never knew you would go back to your profession as a cook, after moping to me for the past few months about how you hate being a chef.”

“What’s the deal with you and Charlie?” Warren spurted out.

“er.........sorry?”

“I saw you two kissing back there” Warren said. Richard was struggling to find words.

“Warren.....I’m....I’m...sorry. Trust me....we.......we were going to tell you about this.”

“Mate, do you realise you’ve just come out of an engagement that has hurt you so badly?” Warren argued. “You were devastated because Tina broke your heart by engaging in an affair with Roman.”

“But Warren, this is different” Richard replied. “I’ve known Charlie since I joined the Police. She’s lovely, and she will never try to hurt me.”

“That’s what you said about Tina, and look what happened there” Warren replied. “Jack said you spent the night at the Beach in the pouring rain, crying over your break-up with her. How do you know that Charlie isn’t gonna do what Tina did to you?”

“I.......I just know!” Richard replied. Warren scoffed at his answer.

“I don’t believe you for one second. You’re not in any state to have a new relationship, I mean, look at you! Look what’s happened.”

“You’re saying that I can’t have a relationship with Charlie?” Richard asked, a sense of anger in his tone.

“I’m just concerned that you’re using Charlie as a rebound to get over Tina” Warren replied. “That’s not how a healthy relationship works. You need time to recover from your break-up, so if you want to do the right thing, you should go to Charlie and end things with her.”

“You know what, I absolutely can’t believe you!” Richard growled. “Who gave you the right to control my relationships?”

“I’m not trying to control your relationships, mate. I’m just.....” Warren was interrupted.

“YOU KNOW WHAT, I’M NOT EVEN GOING TO BOTHER HEARING THE REST OF WHAT YOU HAVE TO SAY” Richard shouted, storming out of the Diner. “Come on Charlie, let’s go.”

+++++

“What? Uncle Andrew went through your wallet?” Tony asked his fiancé.

“I caught him as I entered your room” Rachel replied. “And Gina, he may have gone through your bag as well.”

“I guess that he was looking for cash” Xavier suggested.

“He was” Rachel replied. “I saw him holding a $100.00 note in his other hand. I think that once the supplies in this house are gone, he’ll need money to survive.”

“He can’t go on like this” Hugo said.

“You’re right, mate” Tony replied. “He’s almost 70, and he can’t go around stealing other people’s money to support himself.”

“But what are we gonna do?” Rachel asked. “We can’t leave him like this.” Tony and Gina turned around and saw Jack, Martha and Lucas whispering to each other.

“What are you two whispering about?” Tony asked.

“Guys, Jack and I have an idea” Martha replied.

+++++

“Richard, are you OK?” Charlie asked, catching up to him.

“No, I’m not OK” Richard replied. Charlie grabbed his arm.

“Richard, Stop!” Charlie ordered. Richard stopped and turned around to face the Senior Constable. “Obviously something back there upset you. Tell me what it is.” Richard took a moment to think, taking a deep breath.

“Warren’s the new cook at the Diner” Richard replied. “He saw us kissing.”

“What?”

“But that’s not all” Richard replied. “He made it clear to me that he strongly disapproves of our relationship.”

“What?” Charlie exclaimed. “But.....but why?”

“He thinks that our relationship is just a rebound for me to get over my failed engagement to Tina.”

“But........we love each other, right?”

“I know, I know” Richard replied. “But he doesn’t see it that way. But it doesn’t matter anyway, because that’s just who he is. He’s always been a controlling Brother who likes to meddle in anything I’m involved with, but this time, I’m not going to let him stand in the way of our relationship. I love you.”

“I love you too” Charlie replied, placing her arms around the officer for a hug. A thousand thoughts came rushing to Charlie’s head after hearing what Richard had said to her.

“Perhaps I should talk to Warren” Charlie thought to herself.

+++++

Everyone looked up to see Andrew arrive back in the house.

8:30PM (NT)

“Hi” Andrew whispered silently. “I’m surprised you’re all still here. I thought you would all hate me, especially you, Rachel, after stealing from you.”

“Of course we don’t hate you” Rachel replied. “We’re worried about you.”

“You shouldn’t be” Andrew continued. “You guys have your own lives and families to worry about. You don’t need my problems to interfere with that.”

“So you want to keep stealing. Is that it?” Tony firmly asked. Andrew kept silent.

“Uncle Andrew, you can’t go on like this” Tony continued. “I can’t bear to see you homeless and alone. You took great care of Kate and I in Adelaide all those years ago. Now it’s time for me to return the favour.”

“Sorry?” Andrew asked.

“Jack, Martha and Luc came up with an idea, and we all discussed it and we believe it’s the best solution.” Rachel said.

“What Idea?”

“We would like you to come back with us and stay in Summer Bay.” Gina said.

“But......”

“Just hear us out, Uncle Andrew” Tony replied. “Jack, Martha and Lucas want you to stay with them in their house. Gina, the boys, Rach and I will just be next door, and besides, we’re family. We want to help you and we would like you to be with us. Please, Uncle Andrew. What do you say?”

Suddenly, a knock on the door was heard, interrupting their conversation. Hugo went over to answer it. Opening the door, he saw two police officers standing in front of him.

“Hello, can I help you?” Hugo asked.

“Hello” The officer replied. “I was wondering if Gina Austin is here. I was told that she might be here at this address.” Hearing what the officer said, Gina got up from her seat and headed towards the door.

“Yes, I’m Gina Austin. What can I do for you?”

“We have something to tell you” The man replied.

“er.........sure” Gina replied. “Hugo, tell everyone that I’ll just be with the officers out on the porch.

A few minutes later...

“What do the cops want?” Tony asked.

“I don’t know” Hugo replied. “They wanted to speak to Mum in private. At that moment, Gina returned inside, slowly closing the door behind her. Xavier looked up and saw that his mother was visibly shocked and shaking.

“Mum? Xavier called out.

“Gina, what’s wrong?” Rachel asked. Gina slowly turned around to face her concerned family members.

“Jeremy’s dead” Gina softly spoke. “They said he was killed in a car accident on his way to Broken Hill.”

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Title: The Real Reason)

Will Andrew accept his family’s offer to move to Summer Bay?

Charlie assures Warren that she will not hurt Richard.

Gina makes a shocking discovery about Jeremy in a letter.

[blizzard18]

Hey guys, I might not be able to finish the next chapter until after Christmas/New Years (I'm still finishing them off) - If I can get them done in time, I will post them.

Anyway, wishing you all a Merry Christmas. Here is the next chapter

CHAPTER 68: THE REAL REASON

It was now a new day for the residents of Summer Bay.

9:00AM

After hearing a couple of knocks on the door, Warren turned off the TV and headed to the door to open it.

“Hey” Charlie whispered.

“Charlie!” Warren exclaimed. “What are you doing here?”

“I want to talk to you. Can I come in?” Charlie asked. Warren at first hesitated, but eventually decided to allow the Senior Constable inside his apartment.

“Come in.”

Charlie took a seat on the lounge. Warren sat on his armchair, facing her.

“I’m guessing you’re here to talk about your ‘new romance’ with my baby brother.” Warren noted. Charlie nodded.

“Richard told me you were upset about our relationship” Charlie commented.

“Well, to be honest, I’m not that keen on the relationship, yes” Warren replied. “Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against you. I’m just worried that Richard will be left heartbroken. Charlie, he’s had a lot of bad luck with women in the past. His first fiancé, Jill, left him standing at the altar on their wedding day. Then he had a couple more failed relationships, eventually deciding to join the Police, saying that it would be a good distraction for him. But that didn’t stop him from meeting Tina, who he genuinely thought was the one for him, until she cheated with your boyfriend.”

“Ex-boyfriend” Charlie corrected him. “Anyway, Warren. I know Richard’s had a string of bad luck, but.......” Warren interrupted her.

“How can you know about Richard’s bad luck?” Warren asked. “You weren’t there when he came home in the evening, sobbing and crying after each occasion. I’m telling you, Charlie, Richard can’t get hurt again. I can’t stand seeing him like this.”

“Please, Warren” Charlie pleaded. “Trust me. I’m not like those other women. I’m genuinely in love with Richard.”

“But what about Roman?” Warren asked. “Are you sure you have no more feelings for him? I mean, you two were together for quite some time.”

“I made it very clear to him after he cheated with your sister that he had only one more chance” Charlie replied. “He blew his chance when he went out with Tina, and I cannot forgive him for that.”

Warren sat up from his seat.

“Another thing I’m worried about is that you two seem to be taking things quickly. In fact.....too quickly.”

“I know it seems rushed” Charlie replied. “But surely time doesn’t matter when two people genuinely have a connection with each other.”

“Hmm, I don’t know about that.”

“Warren” Charlie continued. “I know this relationship came as a shock to you, but I promise you it’s for real this time. I will not hurt your brother, like the others did to him. Please be happy for the both of us and give us a chance, please.” Warren kept still.

“Warren?” Charlie called out. Warren snapped out from his daze.

“I need to think this through, Charlie.”

+++++

The Plane from Alice Springs to Sydney touched down. Placing their luggage into a taxi, Tony, Rachel and Andrew hopped inside, while Jack, Martha and Lucas went into the taxi behind them.

1:30PM

“Thank you for agreeing to come back with us” Rachel smiled. “I promise, everyone in Summer Bay are nice, kind and caring people. We will look after you.”

“Thanks” Andrew replied. “I can’t wait to see the place you’ve all been talking about.”

Rachel looked over and saw Tony fiddling with his mobile phone.

“Tony, you OK?” Rachel asked.

“Why aren’t they ringing up?” Tony asked. “I just hope that Gina and the boys are OK back in Alice Springs.”

“Don’t worry, Tony” Rachel said. “They said they’ll ring you up and keep you up to date.”

“I know Gina insisted on us not to cancel out flight back here” Tony continued. “I just hope she’s OK back at the station.”

+++++

Meanwhile in Alice Springs...

Gina arrived back at the house after spending most of the morning talking with the Police at Alice Springs Police Station. Opening the front door, she saw the boys at the lounge, watching TV.

11:00AM (NT)

“Mum” Xavier exclaimed. “Are you OK, what happened?”

“I’m fine, Xavier” Gina replied. “The police just wanted me to discuss a few things with them about your father.”

“Is it all sorted out?” Hugo asked. Gina nodded.

“All done. Anyway, the cops who brought me back called a taxi to come here, so why don’t you boys wait outside for the taxi, while I just lock up the house.”

“Sure” Hugo replied. “Are you OK, Mum.”

“I’m fine” Gina replied. Hugo noticed that his mother looked upset, but not wanting to ask again in the fear of stressing her further, he followed her instructions and took the others outside the house.

Seeing that the boys are outside, Gina sat down on the armchair. Opening her bag, she took out a letter, sealed in an envelope. It was an envelope that was addressed to her from Jeremy’s lawyer, instructed to be passed on to her should anything happen to him.

Gina stared at the envelope, unsure whether to read it or not. A thousand thoughts rushed through her head. Why would her ex-husband leave anything for her? They were divorced. What could Jeremy ever possibly say to her? Tearing it open, Gina took out the piece of paper, reading the handwritten letter from Jeremy.

Dear Gina,

Please don’t see this letter as an attack towards you. I know you would feel hurt and angry at me for filing the Divorce, but I am writing this because there is something you need to know.

Just after Xavier was born, I was stuck with some dodgy business with my mates. They wanted me to join them in their illegal activities around Broken Hill and they won’t take no for an answer. I told them I don’t want to take part in anything that they did, but they threatened me continuously. Then one day, they caught up with me and said they will hurt all of you if I didn’t join them. They believed that I was using you and the boys as an excuse to escape from them. Then, I received death threats, saying that if I didn’t leave you, they would harm all of us. They needed the proof – they needed to see the official divorce papers. That’s why I had to make up an excuse to you, saying I couldn’t bear Brendan’s disability anymore as the reason for me leaving you.

I know this may come as a complete shock to you, but I couldn’t get away from the group, no matter what I tried. I would be killed if I told the Police about them, so the only way to protect you and the boys from them was to get the Divorce and leave all of you behind. I need you to understand that I love you with all my heart and I really didn’t want things to happen like this. Please, understand and forgive me for doing what I did – it was the only way to protect you and the boys.

I pray that someday, If I get out of this mess, that we’ll be together again, as a family, and that we can put all this back in the past. I’m so sorry, for having hurt you like this.

I will always love you. Forever.

Jeremy.

Gina placed her hand over her mouth in shock.

“Oh no.......Oh My God! Jeremy!” Gina was shaking heavily. “NO! THIS CAN’T BE......MY GOD!” Gina fell to the ground, completely distraught and shaken.

“OH MY GOD! JEREMY!”

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Title: New Girl In Town)

Will Warren accept Charlie and Richard’s relationship?

Who do Annie, Jai, Ruby and Lucas meet at Roman’s old house?

Xavier, Brendan and Hugo discover the truth about Jeremy.

Jack is worried when Martha falls ill. What could be wrong?

[blizzard18]

Finally finished this chapter. Hope everyone had a great New Year!

CHAPTER 69: NEW GIRL IN TOWN

The sound of two short beeps from the Taxi sounded as it pulled up outside the House.

“There’s the Taxi” Hugo said. “Xavier, why don’t you call Mum and tell her it’s here.”

Xavier made his way back to the house, entering the front door.

“Mum, the taxi’s here” Xavier called out. He stopped suddenly in his tracks when he saw his distraught mother on the ground, sobbing.

“Mum, what’s wrong?” Xavier asked, rushing towards her. Gina was too shocked and upset to respond, instead handing over the letter slowly to her son.

Xavier took the letter and read it.

“Oh My God!” Xavier whispered, covering his mouth with his hand. “No way!”

+++++

3:00PM

“Nice to meet you” Jai smiled, shaking Andrew’s hand. He, along with Annie and Ruby were at the Bachelor Pad with Andrew, Lucas, Jack and Martha.

“So where do you guys wanna go?” Lucas asked.

“We were wondering if you wanna go to the Beach, then we can head to the Surf Club for a game of Pool.” Annie replied.

“Sure” Lucas responded. He then turned his attention to Jack and Martha.

“You guys don’t mind, do you?”

“That’s fine” Jack replied. “Just remember that we’re going to meet up with Dad and Rachel next door, then we’re all going to take Andrew for Dinner at the Diner. Don’t be late.”

“I won’t” Lucas said. “See you guys later.” The teens headed out the door.

Walking along the footpath of the road, the teens were having a conversation with each other.

“I thought Xavier and the others were coming back with you.” Ruby asked.

“They stayed behind. There’s been some bad news with them.”

“Bad news”” Ruby asked. “What’s wrong?”

“Maybe you should hear it from Xavier when he gets back” Lucas replied. “It’s probably not my place to tell.” Lucas then decided to change the topic. “So what’s been going on here while I was away?”

“Quite a few things have been going on” Annie responded. “Colleen’s got a jukebox in the Diner.”

“Wow.......how did she get a jukebox?”

“Apparently Irene said she always had one in her caravan” Jai chuckled.

“What else does she have in her caravan?” Lucas rolled his eyes.

Passing by Roman’s house, the teens saw a girl, standing in the front yard. She was blonde, and aged in her late teenage years.

“Who’s that girl outside Roman’s house?” Annie asked.

“Must be someone new” Jai wondered. Ruby saw her car parked in front – a yellow sports car.

“Hello” Ruby called out. “Nice Car.”

“Thanks” the girl replied.

“I don’t think I’ve seen you around before” Ruby continued. “You must be new in town.”

“Yeah” The girl replied, smiling. “I just moved in here.”

“Wow, Roman sold the house quickly” Jai muttered to Annie. The girl, overhearing Jai’s comment responded back.

“Actually, this house wasn’t for sale. My Dad asked me to take over it while he’s in the SAS.”

“Oh, so you’re Roman’s daughter” Annie asked.

“That’s right” the girl smiled. “My name’s Nicole Franklin.”

“Nice to meet you” Annie replied.

“My name’s Jai. I’m Annie’s boyfriend.” Jai spoke.

“And I’m Ruby Buckton”

“Nice to meet you” Nicole smiled. She turned her attention to Lucas.

“And who’s this shy boy?”

“Oh” Ruby giggled. “This is Lucas.”

“Hi” Lucas whispered, extending out his hand to shake her.

“Hello” Nicole smiled. “Don’t worry, I won’t bite you.”

“I......I........I didn’t say you.......you would” Lucas replied. Nicole responded with a giggle.

“I have an Idea” Annie said. “We were heading to the Beach and the Surf Club. Why don’t you come with us?”

“Sure, why not” Nicole replied. “Perhaps I can finally look around and see this small town that my Dad always talked about.”

“Sure, no worries” Ruby smiled.

+++++

4:00PM

“Thank you guys for coming here” Warren said. He was sitting in his armchair in the Lounge in his apartment, whilst Charlie and Richard sat on the couch facing him.

“I had no choice, did I?” Richard mumbled, angrily.

“So what have you decided?” Charlie asked.

“I thought about it” Warren spoke. “I thought about everything you said, Charlie, about how you claim that my baby brother and you have a genuine relationship. It seems like you two are.......”

“JUST GET TO THE POINT, WARREN, WE KNOW YOU HATE OUR RELATIONSHIP. YOU DON’T NEED TO TELL US AGAIN!” Richard interrupted.

“Shh” Charlie whispered. “Let’s hear what your brother has to say.”

“Anyway” Warren continued. “I thought about it, and.......................I’m happy to say that I’m convinced that you two are in a real, loving relationship, so I’ll be happy for you two.”

“What? Really?” Richard asked, confused.

“Yes” Warren nodded, smiling. “Just promise me that it’s not going to be another disaster.”

“I promise” Charlie smiled, holding onto Richard’s hand. “Thank you, Warren.”

+++++

“I apologize, they’re taking a while” Hugo said to the taxi driver. “I’ll go up and check on them. Come on, Brendan.”

Making their way back to the house, Hugo and Brendan stopped dead in their tracks when they saw their mother and brother crouched down on the ground.

“Oh my God! What’s wrong?” Hugo rushed over towards them.

“Your father’s dead and it’s my fault!” Gina cried.

“What?” Hugo exclaimed. “What are you talking about? There’s no way it can be your fault.”

“Just read the letter” Gina replied. Hugo took the piece of paper and read it.

“My God!” Hugo gasped. “I don’t believe it........I mean............why on earth did Dad do this?”

“Because he had to” Xavier replied, sobbing. “He had to leave us, to protect us from the gang.” Hugo crouched down on the ground, trying to make sense of everything.

“So Dad really did love us after all?”

“He did” Gina whispered. “I just wish he told us this, instead of making the excuse that he couldn’t stand Brendan anymore.” Gina looked over at Brendan, who was playing with his stuffed toy kangaroo, oblivious to everything that is going on.

“Brendan, come here” Gina smiled, wiping the tears from her eyes. Brendan came over and sat on the ground beside his mother.

“Brendan, there’s something I need you to understand” Gina spoke. “I know that you haven’t seen much of your father when you were young, but I don’t want you to hate him because he wasn’t there all the time. I want you to remember that he loves you, and is looking down at you and smiling.”

“Brendan loves Dad!” Brendan smiled.

“I know, mate” Hugo replied. “Anyway Mum, the taxi’s outside to bring us back to the Hotel. We better go. We can talk more back there.”

“Okay” Gina agreed, standing up. “Xavier, come here” Xavier made his way to his mother. Gina took her distraught son in her arms and hugged him tightly.

+++++

At the Holden House, Andrew, Jack and Martha arrived and sat at the Lounge with Tony and Rachel.

5:00PM“

Any word from Aunt Gina and the boys?” Jack asked.

“They haven’t replied back, mate” Tony replied. “I tried ringing them but either her phone is off or there’s no reception. Anyway, Uncle Andrew, how are you settling in next door?”

“I’m settling in fine” Andrew smiled. “It’s a nice house you have here.”

“Thanks” Rachel replied.

“So Rach” Andrew continued. “Not long now, I’m guessing, until the new one arrives.”

“Still a few months” Rachel chuckled. “You wouldn’t believe it, but about three months ago, Tony spoke with an architect, already planning to build an entire second floor in this house – just for the baby.”

“Hey, why didn’t you do that for me?” Jack teased his father. “Who cares about Luc, I’m the eldest!”

“Come on, don’t be mean to your brother” Tony laughed. “Wasn’t Uncle Andrew’s house big enough for you?”

“I meant our house back in Broken Hill.”

“Oh, you mean Scott’s old house?” Tony replied. “That was massive! You had a bedroom, your own bathroom and a large play room.”

“Fair enough” Jack smiled. “Anyway, I better text Luc and tell him to come here, so we can go to the Diner for Dinner.”

“The Diner?” Andrew asked.

“It’s a nice little place” Rachel replied. “The place is run by some of our friends. It’s located by the water. You’ll love it.”

As Jack got up from his seat, he noticed Martha looking pale and exhausted.

“Babe, you OK?”

“Whoa, Martha. Are you alright?” Rachel asked.

“Yeah, I’m fine. It’s nothing” Martha replied.

“It doesn’t look like nothing to me. How long has this been going on?”

“Actually Rach, I noticed it a few days ago” Jack replied. “Martha felt a bit sick during the morning, after she got up from bed.”

“How do you feel now?”

“Just a bit exhausted” Martha replied. “Actually, Rach, can I see you for a moment?”

“er.......sure” Rachel replied. “I won’t be long, guys.”

Heading to the bedroom, Rachel and Martha entered, closing the door behind them. Sitting down on the bed, Martha suddenly burst into tears.

“Hey, what’s going on?” Rachel asked, worried.

“Rach, there’s something I need to tell you” Martha cried.

“Sure, you can tell me anything”

“The morning sickness that Jack’s been talking about. It’s actually been going on for quite a while. Back in Alice Springs, while you were all at the house for Brenda’s wake, I quickly snuck out of the house and made my way to the pharmacy down the road. I bought myself a pregnancy test. But that’s not all.”

“What do you mean?” Rachel asked.

“I took the test.” Martha cried. “Rachel, I’m pregnant.”

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Title: The Gang From Broken Hill)

Charlie and Richard receive news about Ray’s involvement with a Gang from Broken Hill.

Nicole shows her friendly side to Lucas.

Martha opens up to Rachel about her pregnancy fears.

The Police arrive at the Austin’s Hotel room. But why?

[blizzard18]

Hey everyone I just realized that I made a mistake in the last chapter by posting the wrong preview (that preview was actually meant to be added at the end of this chapter.) I have edited the previous chapter with the correct preview (but I suppose it doesn't really matter now because here is the next chapter )

Also realized a few spelling mistakes in the previous chapter, so I fixed it up.

Thanks also for your comment, callyha. Glad to hear you're liking this fic.

CHAPTER 70: THE GANG FROM BROKEN HILL

“Pregnant?” Rachel was in shock. “But, Martha........that........that’s great news.”

“Is it? Is it really?” Martha replied, tears streaming down her face.

“How can it not be great news? You have a child growing inside you. It’s a gift of life.”

“I know, it’s a dream come true for me, I always wanted a child” Martha replied. “But I’m just worried at how Jack will react.”

“What? You mean Jack doesn’t know about this?” Rachel asked.

“No.”

“Why?”

“Rach.........Jack’s been stressed out this past month” Martha replied. “After everything that’s happened with Tony, as well as having to catch Kent, whilst at the same time having to solve the Robbery, I’m just worried about how he’ll react.”

“Jack will be over the moon” Rachel smiled. “I’m sure he’ll be happy. There’s nothing to be worried about.”

“It’s not just that, Rach” Martha continued. “It’s also..........”

“Also what?”

“I’m scared” Martha cried. “This is my first child, and it will also be Jack’s first. I’m scared that we’ll stuff up as parents.”

“Hey, don’t say that” Rachel replied. “I know pregnancy, especially for the first time can be overwhelming, but think of the Joy that you’re bringing into the world in the end. This is my first pregnancy too.”

“Yeah, but you have nothing to worry about” Martha said. “You have Tony. He’s already had Jack and Luc. It’s not gonna be scary for you guys. Jack and I, on the other hand have no knowledge of parenthood.”

“Come on, I’m sure you’ll be fine” Rachel smiled. “Just take things one step at a time. Everyone will be here for you. I promise.”

“Thanks” Martha replied.

“Listen Martha, you need to tell Jack. You can’t hide this forever. He’s the father, he needs to know.”

Martha suddenly stood up, heading towards the door.

“Wait, where are you going?” Rachel asked.

“I’m sorry, Rach........I have to think things through. I can’t tell Jack now.” Martha replied. Opening the door, Martha left to join the others in the Living room.

+++++

At the Surf Club, Annie, Jai, Lucas, Nicole and Ruby gathered around the Pool Table.

“Missed again” Jai sighed. “Luc, your turn now.” Lucas picked up his cue and aimed it at a direction. Taking a shot, he failed to sink a ball.

“Oh well” Nicole said. “Perhaps it take’s a lady’s touch to sink a ball. Moving around the table, she aimed her cue on the ball. Ruby saw Lucas was staring directly at Nicole.

“Luc” Ruby whispered. Lucas did not respond.

“LUC!” Ruby whispered loudly. Lucas turned around. “What are you doing?”

“er................nothing”

“Don’t lie to me” Ruby silently giggled. “You were checking out Nicole, weren’t you? Look’s like someone’s got a crush on somebody.”

“Shh. Keep it down, will you?” Lucas quickly replied. Nicole turned around to face them.

“Something wrong guys?”

“Lucas was checking you out!” Ruby blurted out.

“RUBY!!!” Lucas yelled. “Don’t listen to her, Nicole. She’s just.....” Lucas was interrupted.

“So you were checking me out?” Nicole smiled. “That’s fine, I am, irresistible to guys after all.” Jai, who was seated on the table nearby rolled his eyes.

“And besides” Nicole continued. “It goes to show that you’re not so shy after all.”

Nicole focused her attention back to the table to take her shot. Annie, Ruby and Jai saw that Lucas was blushing red.

“Luc and Nicole, sitting in a tree” Ruby giggled.

“Shut up!” Lucas replied. His mobile phone beeped. Taking it out, Lucas went to ‘Messages’ and read a text that was just received.

“Hey Luc, meet us now at Dad’s place. We’ll be going in about half an hour or so to take Andrew to Dinner. Jack.”

“Sorry guys, I have to leave you” Lucas said. “Jack said we’re taking Andrew out for dinner tonight.”

“So soon?” Ruby replied. “Oh, shame. I was enjoying watching the beginning of romance for Lucas. In fact, I was just about to ask Jai to ask Alf for some popcorn.”

“Don’t be stupid!” Lucas rolled his eyes. Nicole turned around from the table.

“Going already?” Nicole asked.

“er......yes........yes I am” Lucas replied. “You see, my Dad’s uncle came into town and...........what are you doing?” Nicole grabbed his arm. Taking out a pen from her pocket, Nicole scribbled some numbers.

“That’s my mobile. Call me” Nicole smiled.

As Lucas left the Surf Club, Nicole sat down on the table next to the others.

“Oh my God!” Ruby exclaimed. “You are such a sneaky thing!”

“That’s just what girls do” Nicole giggled. “Our aim is to crack open that little shell called shyness, which guys like to hide in.”

“Just like you, Jai” Annie smiled.

“What?” Jai exclaimed. “I am not shy, like Luc.”

“Come on” Annie teased. “It took me like ten attempts of asking you out for you to finally go out with me.”

“That’s so not true!” Jai rolled his eyes.

+++++

Back at the Hotel in Alice Springs...

4:00PM (NT)

“I just rang up you Uncle” Gina said, hanging up her mobile phone.

“What did you tell Uncle Tony?” Xavier asked.

“I told him that everything’s finished over here and that we’ll be on tomorrow afternoon’s flight back to Sydney.” Gina replied.

“I see” Xavier understood. “Did you tell him about the letter from Dad?”

“Not yet” Gina sighed. “I think it’s better that we tell him once we get back home.”

A sound of knocking interrupted them. Hugo went over to the door to open it. Two police officers stood in front of him.

“Can I help you?” Hugo asked. He noticed that the two officers were the same ones who appeared to them at the House the other night.

“Is your mother here? Are you all here?”

“er........we’re all here” Hugo replied, slightly worried.

“Good. I need you all to come with me now” The officer replied.

“Hang on a second” Hugo interrupted. “What’s going on.......how did you know we were here?”

“No time for questions” the man hastily replied. “I’ll explain everything later, but you all must come with us. Now.”

“What’s going on?” Gina asked, standing next to Hugo.

“Mum, these officers want us to go with them.”

“It’s important. All of you must come with us” The man said. “No more questions. We have to go. Now!”

Gina was slightly confused as to what’s going on. Picking up her bag, Gina called out to her son.

“Xavier, get Brendan. We have to go with the officers.”

A few minutes later, Gina, Brendan, Xavier and Hugo were escorted by the officers to a large Police van. Gina watched as the officer opened up the back door.

“Hop in” the officer told them.

“Hop in? Gina asked. “Why? Please tell us where you’re taking us?”

“Please, Ms. Austin, no more questions. We’ll explain later, I promise.”

Gina and the boys entered the back of the van. It was large enough for the four of them, with a fair amount of room between them. Xavier and Hugo sat on one end while Brendan and Gina sat on the other end, facing them. The compartment had no windows and was separated from the driver’s seat. Only a large glow of white light came from the roof, illuminating the space with brightness.

“OK guys, make yourselves as comfortable as you can. It’s going to be a long drive.”

“Long drive? But.........” Gina was interrupted when the officer suddenly closed the door on them.

Gina went over to open the door.

“It’s locked!” Gina exclaimed.

“What?” Xavier responded. Reaching the door lever, Xavier was unable to open the door. “What on earth is going on?”

+++++

5:30PM

“Horrible afternoon shift” Richard sighed, checking his watch. “Thank God it’s nearly over.”

“Hey, at least you’re finishing early” Charlie replied. “I’m the Senior Constable. I’ve got a late shift tonight.”

“Late shift?” Richard asked. “I thought you said that was for tomorrow night.”

“No, not tomorrow night. Tonight.” Charlie corrected him.

“Oh” Richard replied. “Do you want me to stay back with you and keep you company?”

“Aww, Richard, you’re such a sweetie, but you don’t have to” Charlie smiled.

“No, no. I want to. I’d rather be with you tonight. I have nothing planned for tonight.”

“Thanks Richard” Charlie replied. “I’m so glad that you patched things up with your Brother.”

“Well, let’s hope that he’s true to his word and that he's actually happy with the two of us together” Richard rolled his eyes.

The phone on Richard’s desk rang.

“Hello, Constable Richard Dean speaking.....................Yes, she’s here. I’ll transfer the call.”

“Charlie, there’s a call for you” Richard said. Charlie picked up her desk phone.

“Charlie Buckton speaking..........................what?................when was this?.......................I see...................yes, we have him here. What has he got to do with....................how do you know it’s him?................................I see. What’s the name?........................Craig Dawson.................If he admits to being associated with him, then we’ve got a major victory for both our cases............I’m going to interview him right now........OK.”

“Who was that, by the way?” Richard asked.

“That was a friend of mine, Senior Constable Nate Williams from Broken Hill Police Station” Charlie replied. “Apparently they have a shared case with the Police in Alice Springs and they’ve arrested a gang responsible for a national chain of robberies and illegal activities that has terrorized a number of businesses in almost every city in Australia. They were based in Broken Hill.”

“Oh” Richard understood. “Do they need our assistance?”

“Nate said that the ringleader, known as Craig Dawson fled Broken Hill and was believed by witnesses to be heading to Alice Springs. Nate's team passed on the message to the station in Alice Springs and eventually he was caught there and arrested.”

“OK” Richard replied. “But why are they ringing us? We’re not involved in their case.”

“We are now” Charlie replied. “Nate told me that when Senior Constable Jacob Donovan of Alice Springs interviewed Dawson, he admitted that Ray Henderson was one of his associates.”

“Ray Henderson, the real estate agent?” Richard asked. Charlie nodded. “So what do we do now?”

“We need to get Ray to tell the truth and to confess to being involved in the gang. Why don’t you get the interview room ready and I’ll get Watson to get Ray.”

“Sure, no worries” Richard replied.

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Title: The Real Shock)

News from the Police in Broken Hill sends shockwaves to the Austin Family.

Will Ray finally confess his accomplice from the Robbery to Charlie?

Will Martha tell Jack of her pregnancy? Or will she keep it a secret from her husband?

[blizzard18]

CHAPTER NOTE: Flashbacks present in this chapter are highlighted in BLUE.

CHAPTER 71: THE REAL SHOCK

5:40PM

At Yabbie Creek Police Station, Watson led Ray into the interview room. Entering the room, Ray took his place, sitting opposite Charlie. Watson stood at the back of the room to supervise.

Charlie noticed Ray was unshaven, looking pale and having lost some weight.

“Still trying to refuse to eat?” Charlie asked.

“I told you, I’m not co-operating unless my lawyer is present” Ray muttered under his breath. “Anyway, what do you want from me now?”

“We received news from our colleagues in Broken Hill” Charlie continued. “Together with the police from Alice Springs, they’ve arrested a gang, known for their operation in a large robbery joint among various businesses in Australia.”

“So what?” Ray asked. “What does that have to do with me?”

“Come on Ray, we know you’re involved with it.” Charlie argued. “Does the name Craig Dawson ring a bell?” Ray kept silent.

“Well, does it?” Charlie asked again. Ray did not respond.

“OK Ray, this is how things are gonna work” Charlie continued. “I have every reason to believe you are connected somehow to Craig Dawson’s gang. And, as we speak, Constable Richard Dean is in my office getting the reports faxed from the office in Broken Hill. Those reports will prove everything, and it will be used as evidence against you in court and I guarantee the judge will give you a lengthy jail term. Or.....”

“Or what?” Ray murmured.

“Or, you can do the right thing and tell us everything, and If you do so, we’ll make a note and you can end up with something simple as a fine or time in community service.”

“You’re trying to trick me, aren’t you?” Ray growled.

“I’m not joking” Charlie replied. “If I were you Ray, I’d take the easy option. I mean, look at yourself. You’ve been in the cell for almost two weeks. What will happen if you were put in there for a year? Would you cope with that?”

After a moment of silence, Ray slowly began to speak.

“Fine, you win.”

“Excuse me?” Charlie asked.

“I’ll talk, but it’s only because I don’t like prison. I want you to keep your word about getting me a light sentence.”

“I will put in a good word” Charlie replied. “But you must tell me the truth. Are you ready?” Ray nodded. Charlie turned on the tape recorder and pressed the record button.

“Interview with Ray Henderson at 17:40” Charlie announced. “Mr. Henderson, can you confirm for the record that you robbed the Surf Club and the Gym in Summer Bay?” Ray hesitated at first, but eventually gave an answer.

“Yes.”

“Can you also confirm that you are involved or connected in some way to a gang, led by a Mr. Craig Dawson, based in Broken Hill?”

“Yes” Ray slowly spoke.”

“Can you explain how you got involved with the gang?” Charlie questioned. Ray went silent again.

“Ray” Charlie softly spoke. “Remember what I said.”

Ray sighed. “It was back about fifteen years or so, when I started off as a junior Real estate agent in Broken Hill. My boss, Mr. Mueller was a well known businessman over there and he cashed in well with his sales. Mr. Mueller was also the Mayor of Broken Hill a few years beforehand. Craig Dawson was his opponent in the election and was angry over his loss to Mueller. Anyway, after Mueller resigned and became the owner of the Real estate agency, Dawson heard of this and he plotted revenge on Mueller for the election. Dawson wanted to make Mueller bankrupt and he wanted us to steal all his money and give it to him. After all my co-workers refused Dawson’s request, he came up to me with a knife in his hand, ordering me to do his dirty deed.”

“So what happened next?” Charlie asked.

“Fearing for my life, I stole Mr. Mueller’s bank account details and handed it over to Dawson. He cleaned out his account and Mr. Mueller was left bankrupt.

“Why didn’t you tell the police this?”

“He threatened to kill me If I told them about his work” Ray replied. “I was afraid of Dawson. I found out from a friend that he also threatened to harm the family of a man if he didn’t join him. I remember my friend saying that this man had a great reputation, owning and operating a caravan park in Broken Hill, his wife was the Principal of the local High School, and the pair has three sons, one of them, I think has a disability. Anyway, after I did the job, I then fled Broken Hill to get away from Dawson. I came to Sydney and finished my training in Real Estate, then came to Summer Bay and opened up my own Real Estate Agency.”

“How did Dawson track you down?” Charlie asked.

“Dawson is a powerful man” Ray replied. “He always gets what he wants. I heard that he lost all his stolen money in gambling. He then expanded outside of Broken Hill and decided to attack other businesses around Australia at random to get more money, whilst blackmailing other people to join his gang to do the jobs. Only a few weeks ago, he contacted me, telling me one of his contacts spotted me in Summer Bay. I was shocked. I thought that the incident with Mueller would be the first and last time I would ever get involved with Dawson. But Dawson is a smart man. He did his research and found out about the booming business at the Surf Club and Tony’s Gym. He wanted me to empty them out, threatening me that he will come to the Bay and harm me if I didn’t do so. But that's not all”

"What else?" Charlie asked.

"To make things worse, Dawson ordered his mates to shut down my Agency, because he didn't believe that I'd go through with his plan. He said that he will not harm me and he will only re-open the Agency if I followed his orders." Ray took a deep breath.

“So I did it.” Ray continued. “I robbed the Surf Club and the Gym.”

+++++

Lucas arrived at the Holden House, after having received the text message from Jack.

5:50PM

“Hey” Lucas called out. “Jack took out his key from his pocket.

“Here, catch” Jack threw the key. Lucas reached out and caught it. “Go back home and get changed. We’re leaving in about ten minutes.”

“Why can’t I just stay like this?” Lucas asked.

“Because we’re taking Andrew out to Dinner, it’s his first time in the Bay, remember?” Jack said. “So you need to look nice, and also, another reason is, because I said so!”

“Oh Please!” Lucas rolled his eyes.

“Come on, Jack, Luc’s fine” Andrew smiled.

“Yeah, mate” Tony replied, placing his arm around his youngest son. “Don’t worry Luc, Jack’s just jealous, because you’re all casual and relaxed, and he’s always obsessed with being over-the-top, and he can’t just stop with his obsession.”

“Come on, Dad” Jack replied. “I just want everyone to look nice, neat and normal. We want Andrew to feel like he’s at home here in Summer Bay.”

“Jack, you wore a suit to my birthday last year, and it was only a barbeque at the backyard” Tony laughed. “You need to relax, mate. Everything’s fine.”

Martha, who sat on the couch facing them, looked on as she saw her husband and his brother and father, along with Andrew laughing and joking with each other. She saw how easy and relaxed Tony was with his sons, and how he gets along well with them, like mates. She knew that they were a close-knit family, who stuck by everything, especially during the time when they feared that Tony would die in the aftermath of the fire at the warehouse. Martha then remembered her earlier discussion with Rachel.

“I know pregnancy, especially for the first time can be overwhelming, but think of the Joy that you’re bringing into the world in the end. This is my first pregnancy too.”

“Yeah, but you have nothing to worry about” Martha said. “You have Tony. He’s already had Jack and Luc. It’s not gonna be scary for you guys. Jack and I, on the other hand have no knowledge of parenthood.”

Martha knew that Rachel was right – Jack needs to know about the pregnancy. But after seeing her Father-in-law so relaxed and at ease with his sons, she once again feared about how she and Jack will cope as first time parents. Will they manage as good parents or bad ones? But most of all, she was scared at how Jack will react. The thought sent chills down her spine – the only thing left now is, whether she should tell Jack or continue to keep it a secret.

+++++

Meanwhile on the road.....

The Police Van travelled along the highway. It has been almost six hours since they left Alice Springs, with Gina, Hugo, Brendan and Xavier travelling in the compartment behind them.

10:00PM (NT)

The van suddenly stopped.

“Guys, what’s going on?” Gina asked. Hugo checked his watch.

“We’ve been travelling for over six hours.”

“I just don’t understand” Gina said. “We’ve been trapped in here for so long and none of us know where we’re going.”

Hugo looked over and saw Xavier break down into tears.

“Come here” Hugo whispered, holding onto his little brother, hugging him tightly.

“What is happening?” Xavier wept. “Why are we in here?”

“If only I knew, mate” Hugo silently replied.

“I’m scared, Hugo” Xavier cried. Hugo sighed. He had never seen his brother so upset before.

“We’ve been taken in here, then locked up, and now we don’t know where we are, or what’s gonna happen to us. I just wanna go home, to our real home in Summer Bay.”

“I want that for us too” Hugo whispered. Gina couldn’t help but shed a tear herself. She watched as her eldest son did his best to comfort the distressed teenager, whilst at the same time stroked Brendan’s hair gently, as he silently slept on her lap.

“What if we never get out of here?” Xavier continued. “What if we don’t see Uncle Tony, or Rach, or Jack or Luc? What..........what about Ruby? I............I love her.”

“Shh, mate” Hugo replied. “I promise you, we will get out of here and we will be back in Summer Bay, with everyone.”

Everyone looked over when they heard a key enter the lock on the door. The Policeman opened the door and handed the family four bags of takeaway meals.

“I thought you guys might like to eat something.” The man replied.

“Where are we?” Gina pleaded. “Please, tell us?”

“You’ll soon find out”

“I don’t understand” Gina replied. “Why are we locked up in here? Can’t you see how much you upset my son?” The officer looked over and saw Hugo holding Xavier tightly around his arms. He saw Xavier’s face streaming with tears.

“I’m begging you, officer” Gina continued. “Please, please explain to us what’s going on?”

“I apologise if I’ve caused any inconvenience......” Hugo abruptly interrupted the officer.

“CAUSED ANY INCONVENIENCE?” Hugo asked, angrily. “YOU THINK THAT MY FAMILY BEING LOCKED UP IN THE BACK OF YOUR VAN IS CONVENIENT FOR US?”

“Listen” the man replied. “The traffic along the highway is very quiet tonight. We’ll get to our destination sooner than expected, perhaps in about four hours or so. But for now, just get something to eat and try to relax. I promise you all, there is absolutely nothing to worry about.” Everyone watched as the man closed the door. Moments later, they heard the engine start up again. The van had entered back along the highway.

A few hours later.....

3:30AM

The Van stopped after arriving at the destination. It was at an old house at the end of the street. The street was very dark, with little street lights giving a dim reflection of the surroundings. Outside the House were two other patrol cars, along with a few other officers.

The policeman opened the door to find Gina and the boys asleep after the tiring long ride. The officer gently woke them up.

“Guys, were here” The man softly spoke. Gina, followed by Hugo, Xavier and Brendan slowly sat up on their seats.

“Where.......where are we?” Gina whispered.

“Come on out, we’re here now”

The officer took out a flashlight and guided Gina and the boys out of the van.

“What is this place?” Hugo asked. “Are you now gonna finally tell us where we are?”

“We’re in Broken Hill” The officer replied.

“Broken Hill?” Gina gasped. “But......”

“We’ll explain everything. But first I want to introduce you to Senior Constable Nate Williams from Broken Hill Police Station.” The senior constable came out from his car and walked up towards the family.

“Hello” Nate smiled. “I’m glad you’re all here safely.”

“Yeah, in such terrible conditions we arrived here” Xavier scoffed.

“I apologize” Nate replied. “I realize that the travel was not as you would have hoped, but this was the only way. We needed all of you to be here, right away.”

“WHY?” Hugo yelled, frustrated and angry. “I’M SERIOUS. I WANT TO KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON, AND I WANT AN ANSWER, NOW!”

“The truth is” Nate continued. “for the past few months, we’ve been working secretly on a case against a gang who were based here in this town. They were responsible for a range of attacks on numerous businesses throughout the country. We’ve only just managed to catch them, along with the ringleader, who was spotted near Alice Springs. But we only caught them thanks to one man who secretly worked with us.”

“Who?” Gina asked. Nate turned around and signalled to an officer who was standing outside the front door of the House. The officer opened the front door. A man walked out, heading towards the Austins. Gina and the boys turned around stood in shock when they realized that the man was no other than a familiar face – someone very well known to them

“Oh my God!” Gina gasped. “JEREMY?”

+++++

NEXT CHAPTER: (Title: Dawson's Gang)

Jeremy and Nate explain everything to Gina and the Boys. Why did the Police put him in Witness Protection?

NOTE: Just realized that the preview posted in the last chapter mentioned about Lucas and Nicole - that was actually a mistake, and I added it incorrectly. I edited the preview to correct the mistake (Not that it really matters, since the chapter is here already )