Craig's Return
"C..Craig what you doing here?"
Darren managed to splutter, whilst trying to let go of John-Paul's hand subtly.
"Oh you know a little bit of this and a little of that."
"But it's been two years!"
John-Paul managed to get out, before collapsing onto one of the pubs perfectly placed leather pews.
"I came to see the family obviously. I've got some big news I need to share."
"Oh God not again."
"It's nothing like that Darren, although I am guessing you two have something to tell me?"
"No it doesn't concern you. We need to sort things with our families first anyway."
"Calm down John-Paul I am not going to cause problems."
"Not cause…not cause problems, you being here is a problem!"
John-Paul had lunged at Craig his fists raised, but Darren managed to block him, however the others had struggled to stop Rhys whose fist connected with Craig's face sending him reeling onto the floor.
"Nice to see you too Rhys!"
"It's never nice to see you Craig! How's Sarah these days? Her mum said she finally saw some sense."
"You're right Sarah and I split up officially over six months ago."
"You didn't even call me."
"Well forgive me John-Paul, but it looks as though you are doing okay for yourself."
"But after everything we went through. You said you loved me and I didn't get one lousy call off you! But you're right I am happy, so it doesn't matter."
"Well as long as Darren is the one for you I am happy for you."
"Thanks for your blessing on that, but we don't need it. Darren cares. You never did!"
"I did John-Paul don't say that, you know I did."
"But let me guess, you've met someone else? I am sure SHE is wonderful Craig, but there will come a day when you realise you're gay and it will be way too late to come crawling back to me!"
"You think that's what I am doing? Actually I came to tell you that you were right about me all along. I've met this guy in Ireland called Damien we have been seeing each other for a while and next year we are going to move in together. He has come back with me to meet my mum and Jack, you can see him when he comes down here if you want?"
"Well thanks for the offer, but I think I'll give it a miss I have to get home anyway, what with having just got back. See you later Darren. Craig."
Darren couldn't believe it, he was in two minds. Firstly he was really happy to see Craig, as his baby step-brother had been away from home for two years, but on the other hand he had managed to upset John-Paul and only he had the right to do that now.
John-Paul arrived home fuming to his mum and sisters who were sat in silence watching television.
"He's home. Did you know he was coming back?"
"Frankie did mention…"
"Frankie told you? Then why on earth didn't you call me, mum?
"He is seeing someone else and I didn't want to ruin your holiday."
"So what you thought it would have been a nice welcome home gift. You could have at least told Darren!"
"That was Frankie's choice not mine. He's her son, not mine."
"What's happening with you and Darren anyway?"
"Not now Mercy!"
"What do you mean? Are you and him…?"
"Are we what? Sleeping together, seeing each other, what?"
"Any of the above?"
"Well yes to all of them, but Craig's home. Mum, Craig's home, what do I do?"
"I know darling, but you have to follow your heart. But remember Craig has moved on, so that will be messy again."
"I know. I don't think I feel the same way any more. We just had a rather public bust up in The Dog."
"Well I wouldn't worry everyone will be used to that by now."
"Yeah your right. But I do think me and him need to talk. I don't want to upset Darren though he is a really nice guy it's not his fault he has a two timing scumbag for a step-brother."
"Are we talking about the same Darren?"
"Yes mum. Everyone changes."
"Some things don't though love. Please be careful."
"I will. I promise."