Written by KingPaulLover on 20/12/03 Main Cast: Des Taviner and Sheelagh Murphy

PART 1

Des: What do you think your playing at?

Sheelagh: I thought our room would look more romantic this colour

Des: Err I liked it before

Sheelagh: Well I live here now…

D: Don't remind me

Des roles his eyes

S: Oi cheeky

D: Now come here and give me a kiss

Sheelagh gives Des a kiss

D: Your back early, I didn't expect you till later

S: Disappointed?

D: Yeah I was going to cook us dinner!

S: Well you still can!

D: By cook I mean order a take-away

S: I fancy a savloy!

D: Not again…I suppose what the lady wants the lady can have

S: Well I have been on my feet all day so how about you take Dan and go and pick Alice then pick up some fish and chips

D: Your talking control again…

S: Des I'm just being sensible!

D: Come here Danny boy

Des picks up Daniel and straps him in his buggy

S: Des don't forget his coat

D: Don't be so lazy you put it on him

Sheelagh puts on Daniel's coat

S: Bye guys!

Sheelagh waves them out the door

Sheelagh picks up the phone

S: Hi it's me. Coast is clear. Is everything sorted?

A male voice is on the other end

Man: Yeah, can you pop round now?

S: Erm sure but only quickly, I don't want Des to get suspicious

Man: Nor me! He always manages to spoil everything

S: Enough talking about Des!

Man: Can't wait!

Sheelagh slams the phone down and then rushes out the door

An hour later

Sheelagh is sat on the sofa. Des enters

Alice: MUMMY!

Alice runs up and hugs Sheelagh.

Alice: I drawed dis

S: Wow that's beautiful sweetheart

D: Shee will you get Dan out his buggy while I get dinner ready. Alice take of your shoes & coat, daddy cleaned up today

Des puts out dinner while Sheelagh puts Dan in his highchair

S: Wash your hands please Alice

A: OK

There's a knock at the door.

D: It's open

Reg: Hello there. Oh your having dinner I'll come back later

S: Don't be silly Reg there's enough for you!

D: What brings you round here then?

R: Wanted to have a word with you, need your help

D: They all come to Dessie the tiger!

Alice runs in to the kitchen

D: Be careful don't slip!

A: Reggie babe!!

Reg picks up Alice and gives her a hug

R: How's my favourite little Alice?

A: I'm gud!

D: Okay lets sit down and eat

They all sit at the table and eat savloy and chips. Except for Daniel who is feed by Sheelagh by some yucky mashed up stuff.

D: How's that new area car driver?

R: New, he's been her over 4 years Des!

S: Doesn't time pass quickly? This savloy is lovely

A: Mummy I don't like this

Sheelagh is very shocked on hearing this

S: Savloys are lovely eat it up

A: No, no Alice not eatin it

Alice starts crying

D: Don't worry I will make you something else but eat up your chips OK?

A: Thanks daddy

R: Alice you are your daddies little girl!

S: Des, Dan won't eat. I think his teeth are playing up

D: I will get the gel…

Des whispers to Reg as he walks out the room: Just once I'd love a quite dinner

Reg whispers back: Ha-ha the joys of having a family

R: Your coming back tomorrow aren't you?

S: Shhh Des thinks I'm back

R: Why?

S: Mind your own, just don't mention it

R: Is your ham sandwich nice Alice?

A: Lovely!!

Des enters the room again

D: Here we go son. How about me and you Reggie babe go for a bevy?

S: I said I'd meet some people from work down the pub but I don't mind staying here only if you bring me back a savloy!

A: Daddy will you put me to bed?

D: Alice I am going out mummy will have to

A: BBBUUUTTT I want you

Alice looks up to her dad with puppy dog eyes

D: You've twisted my arm

Des kisses her on the forehead

D: Reg we will go after I put the little un to bed!

R: Fine by me

S: Alice you can watch the end of Aladdin OK?

A: Okay mummy, cum on Reggie babe

R: Ohh Aladdin I love that film, Saves me washing up!

D: I'm just gonna check my e-mail

S: I'll start on the washing up

Des goes up and grabs Sheelagh from behind and kisses her cheek.

D: I love you

S: Yeah…err you too

Des picks up Dan and goes into the study

Sheelagh starts to text someone quickly

Reg walks in

R: Any chance

S: Argh…you scared the hell out of me

R: Sorry I was just going to ask for a cuppa

S: You know where the kettle is

R: What's wrong Sheelagh?

S: Reg why are you so nosy?

R: I'm just looking out for Des. Well I'm looking out for all of you…

S: Get a life Reg

R: Your time of the month?

Des enters

D: I'm gonna sneak out Shee

R: You can't let Alice down like this

D: Ahh come on Reggie babe, I don't need a lecture from you. She's only nearly four; she'll get over it!

S: Fine have a nice time, don't forget the savloy

Des & Reg leave.

Reg: Sheelagh was acting weird earlier, what's wrong with her

Des: Probably her time of the month, stop talking and start walking. By the time we get there it will be last orders

Back at the flat

S: Alice time for bed

A: Aladdin hasn't finished yettttt

S: I say time for bed

A: I want daddy

Alice frowns

S: Your daddy's…has had to go out

Alice cries

S: Someone's tired

A: Yeah Danny is

S: Dan is already in bed. If you go to bed you can have some sweeties tomorrow

A: Okkkayy. But you have to tell daddy to

S: He will come and kiss you goodnight, he always does! Get ready and into bed and I will come and read you a story

Alice goes into her room. Sheelagh picks up the phone

S: Hi, it's me again. You can come round if you want

Man same one as earlier: Can't you come round here?

S: No Des has gone out, here with the kiddies on my own

Man: Okay then

Down the pub

D: Reg how about I stay at yours tonight?

R: Why would you want to do that when you have Sheelagh at home?

D: So I can pull!

R: Is that what five years of marriage is worth to you?

D: You know after you eat the same kind of ice cream for five weeks on the trot, gets boring don't it?

R: I don't agree

D: Reg, be honest now, when have you ever agreed with anything I have ever done?

R: Well when have you ever listened to me?

D: Never...And I am not going to start now!

R: Maybe you should

D: Will you just shut it for one minute?

R: Des are the problems between you and Sheelagh?

D: While she's at work all day, doing something she loves, I'm at home looking after the kids. I have to take Alice to Nursery every afternoon, clean the house and look after Daniel. Don't get me wrong I love those kids to death, it's just that there aren't any other coppers at home with kids willing to socialise with me

R: Well what about non-coppers, ever thought about going to one of those toddler groups?

D: I aint no sissy

R: I'm not saying you are!

D: I miss my job so much

R: Yeah I know but

D: If I had my job now I wouldn't have all this!

R: Exactly!

D: Come on Reggie babe you've pulled

R: Ha-ha very funny

D: I'll give you a call okay?

R: Yeah fine

D: Oh is Sheelagh settling back at work okay?

R: Thought you were going?

D: I am

R: Say goodnight to Dan & Alice for me

D: Yeah Alice is probably still up

R: No rest for the wicked ey?

D: Reggie babe, stay clean! Actually didn't you come round to talk to me?

R: Yeah

D: What's up?

R: Well I want to quit the job

D: NNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOO! How could you even consider that? Reg that is the MOST stupid thing that ever came out of your mouth. Don't take that job for granted! You mustn't give it up, if you do you can never give it up...I am going before I hear anymore of this stupid talk

Des walks out

Back at the flat

S: Lovely doing business with you

Man: say the same about you

S: Look can you sort the other stuff too?

M: I am already on the case!

S: Thank-you so much

M: You don't have to thank me

S: Wait till I tell Des

M: Yeah, love to see his face, you are going to tell him aren't you?

S: When the time is right...

M: I will ring you

S: OK speak to you tomorrow

M: You will indeed

Man leaves flat

10 minutes later Des returns

Des: Hello babe, I brought you these!

Sheelagh: Aww there lovely Des. You didn't have...

D: I DID!

S: You are back early

D: I missed you didn't I?

S: Well you get into bed I will see you in there in a minute, I'm just going to put these into cold water

Des goes into their bedroom, Sheelagh goes into the kitchen. Her mobile rings

S: Hello

Gina: Hi, it's Gina

S: You think I don't recognise your voice? Are you ringing about tomorrow?

Gina: No

S: So you've heard

Gina: You could say that

S: What do you think?

G: Think, great!

S: Really

G: You two deserves everything you get. Have to go see you tomorrow.

END OF PART ONE

S: Des you awake?

D: No I'm sleeping. I've had a tiring day, why something on your mind?

S: NO! What makes you ask that?

D: The ring on my finger

S: Did you kiss Alice goodnight?

D: Yes and Daniel!

S: He probably wake up in an hour or two

D: You can deal with him

S: I'm working tomorrow

D: What? You don't think what I do is work?

S: Of course I do. Of all people I know how hard it is

D: Yeah but it's rewarding. You know our little Dan did the cutest thing today…he nearly said dada

S: I miss the kids so much when I'm at work

D: Well let me get ya preggers then you can have another year off!

S: Des…

D: Yeah your right I couldn't cope with another one, you may never no it might turn out like you! We have been all right so far

S: Des laughs goodnight sweetheart

D: Night hun

Everyone is asleep except for Sheelagh who is replaying the days events in her head…she smiles

S: Morning Des

D: Hey sleepy head, I made you breakie in bed

S: Aww how sweet

D: Well you need to keep your strength up. You gonna get the kids ready?

S: I haven't got time!

D: Shee…

S: Dez it's not like I'm abandoning them I will be back later but right now I need to get ready quickly!

D: What about your breaky?

S: I'll eat on the way

D: Fine

Sheelagh gets ready then leaves. She goes into a tall block of flats

Man same one: What are you doing ere?

S: Nice to see you too

M: You could try to be discrete!

S: Sorry I am on my way to work and I was so excited, I just had to see it!

M: Okay. Me and you make a good team don't we

The man winks at Sheelagh

S: Don't get too big for your boots!

M: Do you want a cuppa?

S: Better not, don't want to be late on my first day back

M: Call me in refs?

S: Try and stop me!

Sheelagh leaves and goes into work

It's all chaos back at the Taviner home

Des: Dan come back here, Alice will you PLEASE get dressed!

A: Go to park

D: No, it's raining!

A: PPPPPPPPPPPeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeessssssssssssssssssss

D: NO!

There's a knock at the door

Des opens door

D: Err hello

Honey: Hey Des

D: Is Shee okay?

H: When I see her next I'll ask her

D: What are you doing ere?

H: Well I came to see the kids, got a problem with that?

D: No, course not come into the flat of hell

H: Smells like you could do with a shower

D: Ha-ha when you have 2 under 4 kids and a wife at work, you see how hot you smell!

H: Well how about you take a shower whilst I look after the little ones

A: Buuuuuuuuuuuuuttttttttttttttttt I WANNA GO TO DE PARKS

H: Well how about if you put on some wellies and some clean clothes then we can go to the park?

D: Honey, you are a star!

An hour later a clean shaven Des is sitting on the sofa

A: DDDAAAADDDDDDDDDYYYYYY

D: Sounds like someone's home

H: I feel like such a big kid, is this what it feels like to be you? I went on the swings and the slide and well everything! Dan's flat out

A: Can I watch a d.v.de?

D: Yeah sure!

Alice goes into Des & Sheelaghs bedroom

H: Suppose I'd better go

D: NNNNNOOOO stay I need some adult company!

H: Well only if you put the kettle on

D: Sorted!

Back at the station

June: Gina's just told me Sheelagh, I can't say I'm best pleased

Sheelagh: I think Des needs all the support he can get

June: I know he is your husband but I feel quite sick when his name is mentioned

Sheelagh: He's a changed man

J: Well I think I've figured that out! Gina wants a word with you

S: Okay

Sheelagh goes to see Gina

Gina: Okay that bloke has rang me and I've sent Honey round to distract Des

S: I am getting nervous now

G: Well have you even discussed the idea?

S: No

G: Well I'm sure he won't be that mad…

S: What about the kids?

G: Well that's what Honeys there for!

S: What about transport

G: Reg!

S: Thank-you

G: Remember it's only …

S: A trial I know! But you won't regret it!

Back at the Taviner flat

Honey is laughing

D: I know that's what I thought!

Someone enters

D: Hello stranger

Reg: I was just on refs and I thought I'd take you for a spin in the car

D: I don't want you getting in to trouble

R: To be honest I need your help, I've hurt my wrist and I need you to take me to the station

D: What about the kiddies?

H: They will be safe and sound with me

R: Come on you said you didn't get out enough now here's your chance!

D: You aint trying to arrest me are you?

R: Come on Des

D: Fine Reggie babe

Des says goodbye to Alice then kisses Daniel

H: Don't even think about kissing me I might catch someit

D: I wasn't the one thinking about it…

Des and Reg leave

H: Looks like your daddy's in for a BIG SURPRISE!

In the car

R: Well you handling of the car is much better, just one tip don't crash into any large buildings

D: Ha-ha

R: You really have changed haven't you?

D: I changed the moment I threw that petrol bomb but I couldn't show my true feelings cause I was living a lie! Shee made me realise!

R: I miss this me & you

D: I think there was a time when you could of killed me to get rid of me

R: A? You mean lots!

D: This feels so weird driving into Sunhill nick!

As Des is driving in when outside the nick he sees all the people that work there with a huge banner saying:

WELCOME BACK DES

D: Reg what's this all about?

Reg grins

Reg: Well you're lovely wife has become a bit of a lawyer. She made this happen Des.

Des: WWWWhhhhhaaaatttt? You mean I can be a copper again

Reg: Des you are a copper!

Des gets out the car

Sheelagh: What do you think?

Des: Babes you have just made all my dreams come true

Gina: Welcome back PC Taviner a few ground rules first...no handling any sort of explosives and this is JUST a trial for 1 month and you will be taking strict orders from PC Hollis

Des: How...

Sheelagh: Well I tracked Danny Glaze down and got a statement about then I meet this guy, an answer to prayers! He was an ex-copper turned lawyer/private eye and he managed to sway the courts into giving you a temporary police by showing all the stuff you did and how you had changed

Gina: Everyone deserves a second chance Des, to name a couple Nick-drugs, Jim-alcoholic

Des: Point taken...

Sheelagh: Are you happy?

Des: Yeah as well as amongst other feelings

Gina: I will get Sgt Smith to familiarise you with the station

Des: Is that necessary?

Gina: Des no back chat

Des: Sorry ma'am

Gina: Sgt Murphy & PC Taviner are who you are inside these grounds not Des & Sheelagh. If any personal problems or other caprices come inside this station, a lot of action will be taken

Sheelagh: I agree

Des: But what about our kids?

Gina: Surely they are too young to be coppers? Don't there be any repeat performances of the incident we will call 'the Nixon horror'

Des: We haven't got anyone to look after them though

Gina: Honey is there now. You have to have a week of training first starting from tomorrow. Today is just a welcome back/introduction

Sheelagh: Des I'm taking a few weeks off work and I've hired a nanny

Des: Why?

Sheelagh: It's easier plus I'm owed it and we can offered it

Smithy: Come on PC Taviner

Des: Yes Smithy I mean sergeant

Gary: Des can I have a word with you some point today?

Des is about to answer when Sheelagh interrupts

Sheelagh: PC Best wait for me in my office now

Gary: Fine but I aint done anything wrong

Sheelagh smiles & gives him a we'll see look

Des: Ma'am will I be driving the area car

Gina: No way not in a million years

Des: Well I drove it her today

Gina: Des you are forgetting yourself again, no back chatting & that was just so we could get you here. Reg is an area car driver so he will be driving you. AND YOU WILL BE DOING DOMESTICS. SMITH IS WAITING FOR YOU

Des mutters to himself: I don't do bloody domestics

Sergeants Murphy's office

Sheelagh: Strictly off the record Gary I will know if you have told Des anything

Gary: How did you know I would tell anything?

Sheelagh: PC Best I know you too well. He doesn't need to know

Gary: HE DOES

Sheelagh: He is my husband

Gary: You don't act like your married

Sheelagh: Shut it, Gary you know what I'll do

Gary: Yeah okay, I'm leaving

Gary walks out

Des: Gary what did you want to talk about ?

Gary: Hmm I don't matter

Des: Nah course it did

Gary walks off

Des: What's up with him?

Smithy: Women troubles probably knowing him! Just leave him...

Des: So who's going out with who?

Smithy: Des focus please

Des: Okay

Smithy: I just need to see Sgt Murphy for a minute. Make yourself useful & go into CID & ask Debbie for my case folder

Des: God fetch this, do this, just like I'm at home

Smithy goes into Sheelaghs office

Sheelagh: Not you as well Smithy

Smithy: I'm on your side here, I just came to say Reg doesn't know, thought it would put your mind at rest

Sheelagh: Thanks but Reg is a bit suspicious, you know with what happened at home. Also we have to keep an eye on Gary though

Smithy: And Polly

Sheelagh: She knows?

Smithy: Yup, Gary asked her for help

Sheelagh: He normally goes to Honey

Smithy: I know but Polly & Gary...it's a long story!

Sheelagh: Don't worry I've heard rumours. Do you want to meet after work?

Smithy: Think that's a good idea?

Sheelagh: Well it's not a bad one! Anyway when have you ever turned down a drink?

Smithy: Ha that's true, yeah go on then

Sheelagh: I know what your worrying about

Smithy: Hmm what's that then

Sheelagh: I'm having a break from work for a bit so

Smithy: YUP you know me too well

Sheelagh: Don't worry okay

Smithy: Is everything just going to sort it self out?

Sheelagh: I wish!!

Des enters

Des: Hey Sexy

Smithy: I hope your not talking to me

Sheelagh: PC Taviner I don't know what you may think but you are to for work

Des: I love it when your bossy

Smithy coughs

Sheelagh: THAT'S IT PC TAVINER GET OUT OF MY OFFICE

Des: Whhhhatttt?

Sheelagh pushes Des out the door

Smithy: See you later

Smithy follows. Sheelagh sighs

Smithy: Des Okaro wants to see you

Des: I can find my own way there

Des hands Smithy the file & heads to Adams office

Adam: Ah the man of the moment

Des: Sir

Adam: Welcome back but this is a fresh start. Are you a changed man?

Des: Yes I am sir

Adam: I've got big plans for you

Des: Really?

Adam: Yea but I'm not going to throw you in the deep end straight away. After training well lets just wait and see. How are you feeling?

Des: A bit weird really. Sometimes I doubt if I have changed sometimes but I can see where I've gone wrong so I am not going to make the same mistakes

Adam: Glad to hear it PC Taviner one word of advice keep your eye on EVERYONE even the ones closest people to you

Des: Sir?

Adam: Remember what I've said now & go and report to CAD

Des: What? But I don't understand!

Adam: You will soon, stay focused okay, I want you to be PC Taviner both at work & at home.

Des: Err see you later

Des leaves somewhat confused

June: We'll look what has strayed in

Des: Look shut it, I know what I did

June: MY eyes on you

Des: Okay thanks nice to know you care about me so much

June: Ha

Des walks away

Des: It's weird around here isn't it

Smithy: Controversial opinions. . .

Debbie McAlistar approaches Des

Debbie: Fresh start yea?

Des: Des is the name, women is my game

Smithy: Des...Sheelagh?

Des: What can I say I'm a ladies man

Debbie: And a man's man

Des: Huh

Smithy: Des thought you had to go to cad?

Des: Alrite I'm going, he aint half bossy

Des walks away

Debbie: Didn't know I knew?

Smithy: To put it simply no!

Debbie: My lips are sealed... for now

Smithy: We owe you

Debbie: Ohh a your a we now are you?

Smithy: We certainly are Debbie we certainly are

Debbie: Serious?

Smithy: What do you think?

Debbie grins, Smithy turns and walks away

Des enters CAD

Des: Hi guys

Cameron turns around suddenly; he looks at Des but not in the eye . . . then he runs

Des to himself: Nice to know I still have that effect on some people

Dean: Welcome back Des

Des: Thanks, I was told to report to CAD

Dean: Yup that's right, we are going to give you some training

Des: For CAD?

Dean: Just to make sure you know the streets okay

An hour or two later

Dean: You did well

Des: I do live around here!

Dean: Yeah

Des: What do I do now?

Dean: Go and see Inspector Gold

Des: Bye!

Des goes to the inspector's office, he goes to knock but he sees Adam in there and decides to have a listen

Adam: I will do what I have to do to protect my officers!

Gina: But you shouldn't of said what you said

Adam: Sheelagh has no idea I know

Gina: I know but you still shouldn't have said what you said to Des

Adam: Come on I didn't give anything away, Des isn't that smart!

Gina: I just wish you'd of told me

Adam: I have now!

Des is confused again so he knocks

Gina: Yes, yes come in who ever you are

Des: Ma'am it's me Des

Gina: I know I'm not blind Desmond

Des: I was told to come and report here

Gina: Ah yes you can go home now, I bet Honey's pulling her hair out!

Des: Ok Ma'am

Adam: No you're not going home quite yet

Gina: Yes he is, now GO

Des: Err ok

Adam: You are forgetting who's in charge Des I have a job for you

Des: Okay fine but Honey is on her own remember

Sheelagh bursts in the room

Shee: GINA IT'S HAPPENED AGAIN

Des: Shee? What's happened

Shee: DES! SIR!

Adam: Des you can leave tomorrow I will drop by your training tomorrow

Des: BUT SHEELAGH IS MY WIFE, SHE IS UPSET

Adam & Gina together: PC TAVINER, SGT MURPHY IS NOT YOUR WIFE INSIDE THIS STATION

Des: Fine I will go

Smithy enters

Smithy: I just heard. . .Des err I just heard I have to take you home

Smithy walks Des out then turns and winks at Sheelagh, she gives him worried smile but thanks smile back

Des: What is going on?

Smithy: Some emm undercover operation is going on or starting I don't know

Des: Well Sheelagh is going to get 20 questions from me tonight

Smithy: Think that's a good idea?

Des: Huh?

Smithy: Look Des your not too smart in the sensitivity department. Wait till she talks to you, if she can , cause she is a police women

Des: Sergeant

Des grins

Des: You up for a quickie?

Smithy: I'm still on duty! It's a good sign look the apartment isn't burnt down

Des: HA. You coming up?

Smithy: Yup I need to take Honey back to the station

Des enters the flat first then Smithy

Alice: DADDY!!!

Alice runs up

Des: Hey sweetie, did you miss me?

Alice: Yup!

Des: Thanks Honey

Honey: No problem! Your kids are great, Daniel looked tired so I put him down for a nap, hope you don't mind

Des: Ah no problem!

Alice: Can Hamey come and play again?

Honey & Des grin

Des: Yes Honey can come anytime she wants

Smithy: Come on Honey I need to get back!

Alice: Can't Smithy stay and play?

Smithy: Not today little one, I've got an important police job to do

Honey: Bye Des, Bye Alice

Smithy: Bye Guys!

Des: Just me and you kiddo. . .

Des sighs

Back in Gina's office

Gina: Sit down and drink this

Adam: Tell us exactly what happened

Sheelagh explains

Gina: Hmm I see

Shee: I don't want Des knowing

Adam: He has too, he will help you

Shee: No he won't he will say well you know what he'll say and my marriage would be over

Adam: You don't know that for sure

Shee: I know Des

Gina: And so do we!

Smithy enters

Smithy: Don't worry

Gina: Des home all right?

Smithy: Yup, Shee I think it's time for you to chill with a drink down the pub

Sheelagh: I'm not sure, I'd rather, err

Adam: That's not a bad idea, you can't stay at the station forever,

Gina: I think you should go for a quick one then head home

Sheelagh: But Des will ask me about

Smithy: NO he won't I've sorted it, told him it was an undercover operation

Adam: Maybe you should reconsider your time off

Gina: No Adam a break will do Sheelagh good

Adam: We will continue this discussion later. Sheelagh you go with Smithy. Smithy makes sure Sheelagh gets home safe

Smithy: I will do

Smithy and Sheelagh leave

Adam: If Sheelagh's at work she is surrounded by police officers

Gina: What about the children?

Adam: There is something more than meets the eye

Gina: If she is at home we can have someone watch Sheelagh & both the little ones

Adam: The guys not after the children. Sheelagh hasn't even made an official complaint

Gina: What about Des? What if the guys after Des? What if it's Patrick?

Adam: Stop jumping to conclusions

Smithy and Sheelagh are in the car

Smithy: I thought we'd go somewhere other than the kings head

Sheelagh: Why?

Smithy: Well I thought Gary might be there. . .

Sheelagh: He doesn't bother me, I don't mind

Smithy: Plus if we go somewhere different, I might be able to hook with someone

Sheelagh: Well to be honest I wouldn't mind somewhere quiet

Smithy: Ok cool

Sheelagh's mobile rings

Sheelagh waits till someone speaks

Des: Hello Sheelagh?

Sheelagh: Oh hi Des

Des: What time are you planning to be home?

Sheelagh: In an hour or three?

Des: Oh I cooked some chicken in white wine sauce and potatoes and vegetables

Sheelagh: Err I'll eat it cold. Are the kids all right?

Des: Yeah of course but they miss you Shee, just like me. Please come home

Sheelagh sighs

Sheelagh: Bye

Sheelagh puts the phone down

They get out of the car and enter a pub called 'The Red Lion.' Smithy has a larger and Sheelagh has a lemonade with Pineapple. They sit down at a table

Sheelagh: I feel so unhappy

Smithy: Don't worry. Look your the only one that knows about me, your such a caring person, I don't think this guy wants to hurt you he just wants to scare you

Sheelagh: I'm not upset about that, well yeah I am but about everything else Des, Gary and you

Smithy: What's wrong with Des?

Sheelagh: I want to make him happy, I love him so much but I can't be completely open with him because I suppose I don't one hundred percent forgive him

Smithy: That's understand able. But he is a wonderful dad & man

Sheelagh: Yeah but I know what you think of him

Sheelagh grins

Smithy: Well it's good to see you smiling

Sheelagh: Anyone that you fancy the look of?

Smithy: Nah not my type

Sheelagh: Wouldn't you like children?

Smithy: Yeah it's a tough one, maybe one day I'll settle down with a woman and have children. But for now I'm just fishing

After a bit more chat and another four rounds of drinks

Sheelagh: Suppose I'd better be getting home. Looks like I'll be driving you home. Do you want to stop at mine?

Smithy: You trust me?

Sheelagh: Nope but Des trust's me and I trust Des!

Smithy: Okay then can I have the bed and you sleep on the sofa?

Sheelagh: NO I DON'T THINK SO!

Des is sleeping in a dressing gown on the sofa. Daniel and Alice are asleep in his arms.

Sheelagh and Smithy arrive home

Sheelagh: Shh

Smithy: Aww look at the three of them

Sheelagh strokes Des's head

Sheelagh whispers: Desmond I'm home

She gives him a kiss, he stirs

Des: Hey honey, I told the kids they could wait up for you. I didn't realise you'd be so late

Smithy: Hi Des

Des: Oh hi there Smithy, you came round to see if I wanted a bevy?

Smithy: Actually, I've been out for a few already and Sheelagh said I could stay here

Sheelagh picks up Alice so Des can get up

Sheelagh: Smithy you know where everything is, will just tuck these to little ones in hopefully they won't wake you up too early!

Smithy: I am just going to have a shower

Des: Okay there's a towel and sponge in the cupboard under the sink

Smithy: Thanks

Des gets up carefully with Daniel in his arms

They go into separate bedrooms, Des puts Daniel in his cot in their room and Sheelagh puts Alice to bed in Alice's own room. Then they cross paths while kissing the other child good night. Finally they get sometime to themselves. Des sits on the sofa with Sheelagh in his arms

Des: Thanks for today, I love you, you know? I can't believe you did all that just for me. I was scum till you came along

Sheelagh: Des I love you more than life. Without you I'd be so unhappy and I wouldn't have Daniel or Alice.

Des: I just want things to stay like they are forever.

Sheelagh: What with Smithy in the shower?

Des: Not exactly like they are this minute but I do wish the kids would sleep more!

Sheelagh laughs

Des: I'll miss them so much! In some of my heart I don't want to leave them

Sheelagh: It will be hard at first but it kind of makes you appreciate them more, the time with them. Once you've done your training you can always go part-time

Smithy enters

Smithy: Thanks you two, hope I'm not intruding

Des: Not at all but I need to get some sleep now because I have to be in the right mind for the start of my training. I think I'll see you at about 6:30

Sheelagh hands Smithy a sleeping bag and a pillow

Smithy: That early??

Des: Good night

Sheelagh: Night sleep tight

Smithy: Yeah you too

Des gets in too bed Sheelagh climbs into. She falls asleep in Des's arms

Smithy's mobile rings at 4 am waking everyone up

Smithy answers it

Smithy: Hello?

Alice and Daniel are screaming in the background

Gary: It's me

Smithy: Have you any idea what time it is?

Gary: Yeah, I can't sleep

Smithy: You can't ring me up everytime you think about it

Gary: It's not everytime. . .who's that crying in the background?

Des creeps/runs into Alice's room

Des: What's the matter honey? It's okay daddy's here now

Alice: I had a bad dream. I want to get up

Des: Alice it's too early. It's Smithy's phone that woke you up, mummy's putting Daniel back to sleep

Alice starts to cry again

Des: I'll lie here next to you as long as you go back to sleep

Back on the sofa

Smithy: It's the kids, I'm at Sheelagh's. And I'm sleeping

Smithy turns his phone off and goes back to sleep

At six-thirty Des is up early getting ready to have a shower

Smithy: Good job I'm not in today! Can I get you anything?

Des: Yeah a coffee would be great

Smithy goes into the kitchen while Des takes a shower. Alice comes out looking blurry eyed

Alice: Is daddy in shower?

Smithy: Yeah because he smells

Alice frowns and crosses her arms

Smithy: I'm only joking. So what do you normally do this early in the morning?

Alice: Wake mummy up!

Smithy: Why don't we have some breakfast?

Alice: SUGAR POOFS

Smithy tries not to laugh at the images in his head

Smithy: Great I'll have some too

Alice: Watch tele?

Smithy: Yeah why not. But not to loud mummy's sleeping, I'll be in with your cereal in a second

Alice and Smithy sit down and watch C-beebies together

Des comes out of the bathroom all smart

Des: Don't you two look sweet

Sheelagh comes out of the bedroom with Dan

Des: Morning sweetheart

Sheelagh: Morning babe

Des and Sheelagh kiss then Des kisses Daniel

Des: Come here son

Des takes Dan and kisses him on the head

Des: You take a shower I'll feed Dan & make us breakfast

Sheelagh: Des you haven't got time. You only have time to make your own breakfast and eat it, you have to leave in half an hour and it will be a nightmare saying goodbye to the little ones

Des: Oh ok

Sheelagh: I don't have to leave till nine but the nanny's coming in 15 minutes

Smithy: I made you brekkie

Sheelagh: Aww thanks

Smithy: Err not you Des but you can have mine I haven't touched it, turned my stomach. Sorry about Gary

Des: Thanks for making the breakfast for me and Alice and I'll thank Gary when I next see him. It was a blessing really. . .got me away from Sheelagh's snoring

Sheelagh: Go and get changed please Alice

Alice: No

Sheelagh: Alice go and get ready

Alice: NO

Des: Alice I've put your clothes on the bed go and get changed into them for daddy

Alice: Okay

Smithy grins

Sheelagh: Smithy you look tired you can go and have a sleep in our bed, don't worry the sheets are clean

Smithy whispers to Sheelagh: Wouldn't matter if they weren't!

Smithy goes into their bedroom and Sheelagh goes to feed Dan, Des goes to check his e-mails with his cereal in his hand

The door goes. It's the new nanny

Sheelagh: Des can you get that

Des goes to answer it

Des: Hello. . . Are you okay?

Women voice: I am fine Des!

Des: What are you here for?

Women: Desmond I am your new nanny, not yours but the children

Des: Oh great, Sheelagh your sisters here

Sheelagh: I know that!

Sheelagh comes into the living room of the flat. Des is still at the door

Sheelagh: Des get out of the way. Come in Kelly

Des: Alice is in her room, Daniel is . . . err

Sheelagh: Daniel is in the playpen, I'm going to get ready for work and Des your going to say goodbye to the kids and Kelly your going to make yourself at home! Thanks so much

Kelly: Okay great

Des: Oh and there's a man in my bed, his name is well we call him Smithy

Sheelagh: Don't worry about him

Kelly: Sheelagh thought you would of known better being a married women!

Sheelagh laughs

Des goes into Alice's room

Des: Alice daddy is going out, remember how we talked about how big people work

Alice: Like mummy?

Des: Yeah like mummy, well daddy has to work to now

Alice: Can I work?

Des: No princess you have to go to nursery remember?

Alice: Don't leave

Des: Aunty Kelly is going to look after you, I'll be back before you know it

Des and Alice hug

Des: Bye, I will ring you when I get to work and in my break

Alice: You promise

Des smiles: Of course I do, remember I love you

Alice: I love you too

Des walks out of the room Alice runs up to him and holds his hand

Des goes to Daniel and takes him out Kelly's arm

Des: Bye big man

Des kisses him on the head

Alice: Hello Kelly

Kelly: Hey Alice, what do you want to do today?

Alice: GO SWIMMING!

Kelly: What a good idea

Des looks upset, he sighs

Des goes into the bathroom to say goodbye to Sheelagh

He emerges looking happy but then he sees Daniel on his playmat Des: Bye everyone

With that Des is out the door

Sheelagh emerges from the bathroom

Alice: Mummy daddy has work

Sheelagh: I know. So Aunty Kelly will look after you now

Alice: I like Aunty Kelly

Sheelagh: Good, you will do lots of fun things

Alice: SWIMMING!

Kelly: Yeah we can go if it's okay with your mum

Sheelagh: That's fine!! Drag Smithy along with you! They swimming stuff is erm well I don't know

Alice: Mummy daddy keeps it in the cupboard by the door

Sheelagh: I'm going to go now

Sheelagh leaves although she doesn't have to for another hour

Her mobile rings

She looks scared

She answers

Sheelagh: Hello?

?: It's me

Sheelagh: What do you want?

?: To make sure your okay

Sheelagh: I will be okay once you stop calling and following me

?: It's me Gina, you wally!

Sheelagh: OH erm sorry

Gina: It's okay your paranoid, when you leaving for work

S: I've left

Gina: Keep your wellies on, I'm coming to get you

Sheelagh goes to say: I'm quite safe

Gina has already put the phone down

A few minutes later Gina pulls up beside Sheelagh

Gina: Sheelagh, get in

Sheelagh: Hi

Gina: I think we should sort all this mess out once and for all today

Sheelagh: Yeah then everything can go back to normal?

Gina: Normal? You and Des together? Anyways I will call Smithy once we get into the station and I want Gary in my office. . .and I'll call Polly too

Sheelagh: Are you going to call someone else too?

Gina: Des no I think you can deal with that domestic

Sheelagh: No erm

Gina: You'll find he is already there

Sheelagh: What's happened?

Gina: Well another women has come forward. You don't have to make it official but Shee I recommend it because then you can get a restraining order

Sheelagh: I will

Gina: That's really brave of you

Sheelagh: Is the other women okay?

Gina: It's Honey

Sheelagh: Oh no! That's terrible. It's all my fault

Sheelagh breaks down

Gina: It isn't Sheelagh, once this is over you can have sometime to relax

Gina parks the car outside the station and leans over and hugs Sheelagh

Gina: We are all here for you

Sheelagh smiles

Sheelagh: Thanks

They go into the station

Gina: Do you want to see Honey?

Sheelagh: Yeah I would like too

Gina leads Sheelagh into CSU

Sheelagh runs up too Honey

Honey hugs Sheelagh

Sheelagh: I am so sorry I never meant. . .

Honey: It's not your fault, I just feel sorry for you, I know how much hurt you must have, you have been through so much. I really enjoyed it with you kids yesterday they make you feel so

Sheelagh: Special?

Honey: Yeah! Alice is just like you

Sheelagh: They way she admires Des??!!

Honey and Sheelagh laugh

Sheelagh: And Daniel takes after his dad

Honey: He certainly does!

Sheelagh: I am going to make a statement

Honey: Okay

Sheelagh: If you want you are always welcome to stay at mine?

Honey: I wouldn't want to intrude

Sheelagh: You wouldn't be! We had Smithy as an overnight guest! The only thing is you'd have to sleep on the sofa. . .unfortunately we don't have enough money to own a bigger flat.

Honey: I think it's lovely, I'd love to come and stay. You and Des oh and your two adorable children are so welcoming. . .but I've been so stupid how could of

Honey starts crying

Sheelagh passes Honey at tissue

Sheelagh: I'm going to make my statement

Honey: Good luck. Will you come back once you've

Sheelagh: Of course!!

Sheelagh takes a deep breath, she opens a purse and looks at a picture of the four of them. Des and Alice have their tongues out, Sheelagh is laughing and Daniel is asleep. She smiles. But also she feels a tug of love, Des doesn't feel this as he was never there . . . Sheelagh closes her eyes and imagines the five of them in that picture . . . Niamh would be six now . . .

Gina: Are you ready for this?

Sheelagh: Yes, you know there is always this hurdle in your life and you think if once you get over it you can be 'normal' but

Gina: There is always another hurdle! I know that feeling

Sheelagh: Lets make this statement

Two hours later Sheelagh emerges. . .she has finally closed that chapter . . . well nearly . . . dinner with Des soon

Honey: How did it go?

Sheelagh: No words really. . .

Honey: Yeah, you know I'm quite often stuck for words!

Sheelagh: Honey I've got to make a couple of phone calls. . . not planing on going anywhere are you?

Honey: Nowhere

Sheelagh walks out. She goes outside to the back of the station. She has three text messages

The first from her Kelly's mobile:
Mummy, bin swimin, I splashed, miss u and daddy. love Alice and Dan

Sheelagh smiled she loved her children so much more than her job, if she could quit her job she would

The second from Des Hey hun, lovin training & u!! miss u. speak 2 u l8r. Love Desmond

Sheelagh thought to herself: So predictable

The third one read:
Ring me!!

It was from the man

Sheelagh didn't know who to call first. She rang the man

Man: Sheelagh I've been waiting for you too ring! Dying!!

Sheelagh :Why?

Man: I've done it! I've traced her

Sheelagh: WHAT?

Man: Yup, and that's not the best part

Sheelagh can feel her tears rolling down her cheeks

Man: You are going to get everything you have wanted

Sheelagh: It's more!

Man: Look all I need is for you too sign the papers with Des tomorrow then in 7 days your dream will become reality

Sheelagh: Thank-you

Man: Everything is worth fighting for when it comes to you

Sheelagh: See you tomorrow

Man: You certainly will!

The man puts the phone down. Sheelagh then rings Des

Des: Hey babe

Sheelagh: Hey Des

Des: Hows it going?

Sheelagh: Great, I'm ringing to say there are things we need to talk about

Des: Shee don't worry me

Sheelagh: Lets go out for a meal

Des: Can you take care of the baby-sitter?

Sheelagh: Yeah

Des: Love you, have to go

Sheelagh: Des?

Des: Yeah

Sheelagh: I love you more than anything

Des: Aww bye sweetheart

Sheelagh: Can't wait to see you

Des: Me 2

Sheelagh hangs up

Sheelagh then rings home

Smithy: Hello, Taviner residence

Sheelagh: Hey! It's Sheelagh.

Smithy: Hows it going? I'm just leaving to come to the station. Gina called ages ago but I was out swimming!

Sheelagh: Okay speak to you then

Smithy puts down the phone

Sheelagh knows that there are good times in front of them but she knows it's going to be hard

Sheelagh goes back inside

She freezes there in front of her eyes is the man who has caused her so much pain . . . especially recently . . . PATRICK

Patrick: It's all lies I tell you. She's a psycho. She's the one stalking me

Patrick turns to look at Sheelagh

Patrick: You b!tch

Sheelagh just turns away. Running through her head are all the phone calls, the letters in the post and the following. Sheelagh really needs Des at this moment in time

Honey: Phone calls made?

Sheelagh: Yeah, Honey would you mind baby-sitting for me and Des tonight? It's just we want to go out for a meal. You don't have too I was just wondering

Honey: I'd love too

Smithy comes in

Smithy: Well done Shee and Honey. Patrick will be going away for a long time

Sheelagh hugs Smithy: Thanks for being there

Smithy: And I am still going to be here. I was thinking if it was okay with you could I crash for a few more days, Des has just asked me to baby-sit tonight

Sheelagh: But I've asked Honey and if you both crash there's not enough room. Unless Honey wants to sleep on top of Alice's bunk bed

Honey: Fine by me, you need as many friends as you can during these trials

Sheelagh smiles we certainly do

Honey to Smithy: Don't think that this is a hint to score

Smithy winks at Sheelagh

Smithy: Actually I am gay, I have a boyfriend, we are very happy, his name is Greg

Honey: Wow, congratulations!

Smithy: I'm following in Des's footsteps. . .I'm not living a lie

Sheelagh: Well done Smithy I know that must of been hard

Gina: Smithy, Sheelagh in my office right now. I think there is still one or two problems we need to sort out

The three of them head up there. Gary and Polly are in there

Gina: I don't understand all these personal problems

Smithy: Well here's one less one. I am gay

Gina: Smithy does that really need to be inside this station?

Smithy: Ma'am?

Gina: I don't think you should be focusing on that rather than the job

Sheelagh: It's been hard for him

Gina: Life is hard for all of us

Smithy: Sorry Ma'am

Gina: Now what is going on between you three

Gary: I am in love with Sheelagh

Gina: Gary, Sheelagh is happily married

Gary: But she could be with me. I can't believe how you turned me down

Sheelagh: Gary I love Des, I don't want another sexual relationship, I want friends not lovers

Gina: Gary I suggest you seek professional help, a transfer or sometime off

Gary: Sorry ma'am

Gina: Polly your very quiet

Polly: I love Gary but he doesn't love me

Gina: Your all like love sick teenagers

Gary: Also Smithy's in love with Des

Gina: Gary I am not your teacher. Do you find it necessary to tell tale? Now will you all leave my office

Later on Des and Sheelagh are at a restaurant

Sheelagh: Des I've messed up. I haven't told you what's been going on

Des: It doesn't matter what matters is that you are okay

Sheelagh: I've been so stupid

Des grabs Sheelagh's hand

Des: It's okay go on

Sheelagh: I met Patrick, I will tell you why in a minute but I know I shouldn't of and he started stalking me, I didn't know what to do! He was sending me all sorts but I have made a statement and so has Honey

Des: Sheelagh I am so sorry you had to go through that. Honey?

Sheelagh: He was stalking her too

Des sighs and looks worried

Des: Are you sure your okay?

Sheelagh: Too be honest with you, I'm scared

Des: He can't get at you now. I will make sure of that

Sheelagh: Not of Patrick but. . .well I met Patrick because . . . Des I honestly didn't know this but Patrick . . . well he gave up our Niamh for fostering while I was in hospital, you know when I was un conscious and told me she'd died . . .

Des: Sheelagh that is . . . well confusing! But I'm not mad at you in anyway at all

Sheelagh: I couldn't tell anyone because I needed more information about Niamh

Des: I feel so sorry for you. I could of helped

Sheelagh: I know but your here now

Des: So what now?

Sheelagh: Well now . . . well the same guy who helped me get your job back has found our Niamh

Des: Was she adopted

Sheelagh: No she . . . was . . .

Sheelagh looks as if she wants to cry

Sheelagh: put . . . into a care home

Des: Oh Shee

Des gets up and give Sheelagh a hug

Des: Lets go

Des and Sheelagh walk out (they pay the bill first!)

Sheelagh: What do you want to do about Niamh?

Des: Is there anyway we could get custody of her?

Sheelagh hugs Des

Sheelagh: Des I was hopping you'd say that. We can, we are her parents

Des: It's going to be weird

Sheelagh: Well the transition will be gradual

Des: If only I hadn't gone on the run

Sheelagh and Des are walking home. Des has his arm round Sheelagh

Sheelagh: There is no need for if only's

Des: I love you

Sheelagh: I love your more than anything

Des: I'm sorry I've messed up so much

Sheelagh: Me too

They share a kiss and gaze into each eyes . . . They smile and carry on heading home . . .