Part 4
Jess excitedly got ready the next morning to go and help with the charity do for the orphans. Reaching the church hall to collect the cakes and tables and everything Jess was disappointed not to see Joe. Mavis Pike warmly greeted her and informed her that the men would be back in a minute to take more things in Jonesys van. Mind , she said I don't think my Frank should carry too much its making him cough. Just then, the others arrived. Joe however was late. Ooh Joe said Mavis, have you been seeing one of your ladies. Seeing Jess look at him Joe replied saying don't be daft, Mave is just jealous, at which Mrs Pike went red. Nah said Joe I've been down my stock room checking my supplies.
Today Joe looked very dapper as he had on his long uniform coat and gloves. She soon noticed the coat was filled in the lining with whisky and cigarette to sell which he did .
Arriving at the Orphans Hut Joe carried most of the tables being the fittest. Ready for tea he sought out Jess. He crept up behind her pulling her towards him saying Crikey I've built up an appetite. Cheeky said Jess as she turned around. Frazer appeared saying that's not how you make tea and scowling.
The day went well, lots of money made for charity and fun had on the stalls.
What Jessica had loved the most was seeing another side to Joe. At one point Frank was playing Tommy Guns but clearly the children were tiring. Frank took no notice but Joe knelt down and lifted up a little girl from the floor. Pack that noise in he said to Frank, this little one wants a sleep dont you he whispered. He sat down on a bench and rocked her to sleep. What a lovely sight thought Jess. When the staff took over nurse maid duties thanking Joe he made light of it not wanting any praise, absent mindedly biting his lip saying It was nothing.
When they'd cleared up Joe asked if she was coming to the pub with the others. Frank butted in saying he was going. Old Godfrey said he couldn't go as his sister Dolly was making cakes.
Jess jumped at the chance but secretly wished it was just the two of them, or did she, that thought gave her nerves a chance to start up again. Getting dressed later that night she hoped Joe would be wearing his aftershave again