Chapter 26

It was half past four when Joey returned home from collecting his results. He had finished an hour before but had stood in the gardens staring a number 5, wanting to run inside and see his girl and tell her his news, but he couldn't bring himself to do it and went home. He walked straight into the kitchen to find his Mother cooking.

"Hi, Mum"

"You're back" she proclaimed, placing the wooden spoon down on the worktop "how did you do?"

"I passed everything" he informed her "I've got all A's and my place at university has been confirmed , as long as I pass my final exam"

"Joey, I'm so happy for you" she admitted "and so, so, so proud. You should tell your father, he'll be over the moon"

Joey nodded his head in agreement and made his way into the living room.

"Dad?" he questioned as he walked in

"What is it?" Derek inquired, his eyes never leaving the TV screen

"I've got my results from my A levels back today" he informed him. Joey was shocked as his Dad immediately switched the TV off and turned to face him.

"Well? Don't keep me waiting. How did you do?" he asked

"I got three A's and university have confirmed my application" he admitted

"That's brilliant" Derek proclaimed "are you still insistent on not attending university?"

"No, I'll be going, just like you wanted" he informed him

"Wise choice, my boy, wise choice" Derek replied, rooting around in his pockets. Handing Joey a few £20 notes "get yourself something nice, yeah? Take a girl out or something"

"Thanks, Dad, but I'll save it for university" he admitted

"Please yourself" Derek nodded, sitting back down in his chair as Sara entered the room, setting his Dad's coffee on the side "Sara?"

"Hmm?" she questioned

"Try and cover up that bruise, will you? It makes you look weak" he admitted

"Yes, Derek" she replied, leaving the room, Joey following after her

She and Joey entered the kitchen again but before he could say anything, he was cut off by his Mum… "Don't start Joey please! So, what're you gonna do with your money?"

"I was going to save it all for the baby" he admitted "but I guess I won't be needing to now"

"It'll all work out, Joey, you'll see" she replied, kissing his cheek

so will everything work out for him? He doesn't know half of what's going on in number 5 that's all for today ! Back tomorrow xxx