Sequel or Series Episode

Author's Note: Trying to get back into the flow of writing, I've been re-reading existing chapters.  I decided that it would be good to correct weaknesses as I go.  This is the first revised chapter in the Ma'at series, though the significant changes are near the end.

**********

From Chapter 3:

The world snapped back into existence around her.  She found herself on a long, low rise that swept down in grassy waves to a bay.  The sun was to her left, and high in the sky as a vessel, its bare mast swaying with the gentle waves, was rowed in toward a beach.

There was a cluster of tents, or so it seemed, near the shore and well above the line where storms could drive the water.  She looked around, and the grass seemed to extend to the hazy horizon in every direction..

Tamara's Debut Part Six   A Tommy &  Tamara Story   By Topsy

Eve Chapter 35

I woke up with an arm around me, locking me to Claire. Having a full bladder at that moment meant that something had to give. I tried to ease Claire from me but she wasn't the one to do the giving right now. In the end I had to unwrap her from me with the risk that I'd wake her.

I made it back to the bedroom then looked at the clock, it was half seven, and a Saturday, no wonder Claire was still asleep. She needed an alarm to get her moving for school, without that alarm she could sleep for Britain.

It was very tempting to slide back in beside her but I'm a morning person and wouldn't get back off to sleep. I put on a gown, Sharon had brought my own nightwear over, and slipped down the stairs to put the kettle on. Sharon had beaten me to it, she must have got up while I was in the loo. We sat at the table with our steaming mugs.

"I forgot to mention yesterday that Dr Fox called."

"Oh, what did she say?"

"That she won't know before Monday. I'm not sure what she meant."

"Thanks. I know, it's about moving my appointments."

"Right. Now, I think you are worrying too much and it's not good for you."

"I know, but look at it from my side, I have an unknown condition, I've been treated unfairly by the hospital, certain people at my school, subjected to personal attacks, Claire included, and now mum's in hospital, seeing a shrink."

"It sounds worse than it is. You're still healthy, if there was something seriously wrong with you, don't you think you would've been hauled back to that hospital?"

"I suppose so."

"You have been mistreated but it's mostly been dealt with. You should be back at school in a few weeks and you've settled with the hospital. I don't know what you got from that settlement but I'd guess you can afford that laptop you've been after?"

"Yes, I can afford a laptop and I'd like to buy it this weekend, if I can."

"So, what's left? Your mum is in the hospital but, apart from banging her head, has no injuries. She should be out today, although you look doubtful."

"She's seeing the shrink this morning, he might not let her out."

"Unless they're planning to section(*) her, she can discharge herself at any time. Remember, I was a nurse once and they'll have trouble persuading another psychiatrist that she's a threat to herself or others."

"So she'll be home today?"

"I would say so."

"Is that all? Does my life get simpler?"

"Of course, but not straight away. We might get the court hearing on Monday, but we might be denied that again. Either it happens, or it doesn't. There's no point fretting."

"So what do I have to be worried about?"

"Not alot right now, get yourself in that shower. What do you need to do in your house?"

"Hoover upstairs, change the bedding and clean the bathroom. I need fresh milk and bread, and tons more."

"I'll get the girls to help you in the house once they're up. We'll worry about the shopping a bit later. Get moving!"

I ran back upstairs and just beat a sleepy Annie into the shower. Ten minutes later I was back out, I hadn't yet put my wig on, but my hair was long enough to need conditioning regularly. I wondered if I should leave the wig off. Today was not the day for decisions like this.

Dressed in jeans and a sweatshirt I headed out the door and into my house. I firstly went into my and mum's bedrooms and stripped the beds, taking them to the washing machine. There was at least one wash load ready to go, these two beds would mean another two loads. Hmmm.

I'd finished getting the first load running when Annie appeared with a glass of OJ and a plate of toast, apparently I'd forgotten breakfast. I downed the offerings and the two of us went upstairs. I left Annie with the vacuum cleaner while I tackled the bathroom. Afterwards I retrieved a clean set of clothes for mum from her room, as well as her makeup. I placed them in a bag on the kitchen table.

Claire joined us as Annie and I finished our respective chores. I found some clean bedding and asked the two girls to sort out the beds while I went to phone to my aunt.

"Hi Eve."

"Morning. Did Dr Masters call?"

"Yes, he didn't say much though. Are you going to be there at ten?"

"Yes, but I'm not sure if she is being released, although Sharon doesn't think they can keep her there unless they section her."

"I'd have to agree with Sharon on that point. I think we'd best get moving as it's gone half nine."

I hung up and checked on the two girls. They were just finishing my bed but told me to leave them there, Claire asked about food.

"I need to get some fresh milk, bread and salad."

"We'll do that, do you need anything else?"

"I'm just thinking about lunch right now. Here's a tenner, will that do?"

"It shouldn't be that much, you'd best get moving."

I gave Claire a kiss, Annie tried to look disgusted, and I headed out the door, collecting mum's clothes on the way. Sharon was waiting for me, she seemed to know what the girls were doing. It didn't take long to get to the carpark, of course I still didn't have that permit so had to feed the machine with coins. We walked past the main reception desk and up to Neurology.

Mum was sat up in bed with Dr Masters at her bedside. I don't think she was very happy but brightened a bit when she saw the bag I was carrying. I figured I would take the initiative. "Dr Masters, I'm sorry for interrupting but I'm here to collect my mother."

"I'm done here anyway. Your mum was discharged half an hour ago but has been waiting for clean clothes."

He was obviously trying either to tell a bad joke or wind me up. I didn't bite, regardless. I suggested mum needed some privacy. My aunt had arrived and started drawing the curtain, I put the clothes on the bed and left mum to dress. She still wasn't comfortable with her new daughter seeing her without wearing at least some underwear. My aunt stayed to help her. Of course I'd managed to forget a hairbrush but my aunt had hers.

Sharon and I waited at the nurses' station, but didn't see any nurses or doctors. Was this normal for the weekend? Mum and aunt Sue appeared after a few minutes. Mum didn't wear skirts often so I'd decided I'd put her in a skirt for the day, partly as a cruel joke. She hadn't realised it was me who'd chosen her clothes so all I got was a kiss and we headed to Sharon's car. The ride home was in silence, neither Sharon or myself could find anything sensible to say.

My aunt had followed us in her own car and parked on our drive, behind mum's car. The rest of us disembarked from Sharon's car and walked across. Annie opened the front door and retreated to the kitchen. Mum still hadn't said anything but looked around the lounge as she sat down.

"I see you have done some cleaning."

"Yes, Annie and Claire helped me."

That seemed to be the end of the conversation as Annie brought a tray of cups into the lounge. Claire followed with some biscuits, chocolate cookies by the look. We sipped the tea that had been poured, waiting for the first comments. My aunt was first.

"How are you Debbie?"

"If you mean physically, then I'm fine."

"You know what I mean."

Mum looked around the room, as if looking for inspiration. Instead, Sharon decided to speak.

"Eve, could you and the girls go to the kichen?"

I guessed mum wasn't comfortable discussing her talks with the psychiatrist in front of me, Claire and Annie. We picked up our cups and walked, closing the door behind us. I put the radio on in the kitchen to show mum that we weren't listening.

I saw the carton of fresh milk on the worktop and went to the fridge to put it away. I found almost a full fridge, including some minced beef and fresh plum tomatoes. On the worktop were kidney beans and a bag of rice. Have you ever had the feeling you'd been stitched up?

"Eve, we figured you'd want to do something to help your mum. I thought a chilli would be good, to replace the one you didn't get on Wednesday."

I grabbed Annie and gave her a hug, Claire looked upset so she got a hug as well. My eyes welled up and Claire offered me a tissue.

"Thank you. That was a touching idea, but I only left you ten pounds. You must have spent another twenty or thirty?"

"Don't worry about that. How about we help you get the chilli started, then we can organise lunch?"

I took the hint and started working on the evening meal. The girls helped me chop the onion, garlic and two red jalapenos. By the time the door was opened from the lounge we had a bubbling pot and lunch started. I had found a wholemeal loaf on the side, a cooked gammon joint and some strong cheddar in the fridge, plus a ready supply of salad. We started putting a ploughman's lunch together.

"Eve, could you join us?"

* http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sectioning#United_Kingdom

Eve Chapter 33

Dr Fox had said I would have a busy Friday, but I hadn't realised just how busy.

Just before nine I was at the GP surgery having another armful of blood taken. He asked if my mother was in the waiting room as he wanted to give me a complete physical and wasn't sure if I would accept if a nurse was there instead.

Of course I had to tell him about her collapse and suspected siezure, I left out the suspected cause. The physical could wait for now unless there was another adult who could give authority and be present. He made a note to contact the hospital later.

I grabbed a bus to the hospital and walked into the Diagnostic Imaging suite on the stroke of ten. The MRI technician had seen me before, but that time it was my head that had been scanned. Of course I wasn't wearing a wig then so he didn't recognise me straight away, not until I returned from the changing cubicle wearing a gown and knickers only. My bra was wired so that had to go, along with my jewellery.

I laid on the table and he told me he'd been told to give me the full treatment. I questioned what he meant.

"A full body scan. This will take some time."

I would have loved to have fallen asleep but even with the headphones the noise of the scanner was deafening. I flinched several times half way through and he found this on the images when he reviewed them. The whole scan was repeated with stern warnings.

Finally, close to midday I was dressed and at a loose end, I knew mum had several tests this morning. I decided to follow up something from Wednesday and made my way to the Out Patients reception. Brenda wasn't there but her manager spotted me and asked for a quiet word.

"I understand you were quite abrupt with my staff member on Wednesday."

"It depends from which side you look at it. I was here for an appointment and it was the hospital's fault that we were alot longer than we should have been. Did you know that Brenda was hiding her staff ID, in contravention of the hospital rules?"

"How do you know the rules?"

"I don't, I just made an educated guess. I'm right though?"

"That is a rule for the staff. Now, onto this parking ticket."

"Yes, what are you going to do?"

"I've passed it to security saying you're refusing to pay."

"So you haven't spoken to the Chief Exec's office?"

"No, it's not their fault."

"That's fine. As my solicitor was aware of the meeting upstairs and the Chief Exec changed the time of our appointment without informing us you will find a letter from my solicitor very shortly unless you see sense in the next five minutes."

"Is that a threat? I will not tolerate that and will have you removed from the hospital premises young lady."

"Fine, if you want to do that. I would point out that my mother is lying unconscious in a bed on the third floor."

I spun around and pulled my mobile out, calling Mr Dixon and giving him the 30 second summary. He promised a fax would be sent within minutes. Next I called Dr Fox and explained what was happening. Out of the corner of my eye I saw security approaching. I stood my ground, in the middle of the public area.

"Miss Jones, we're here to escort you off the premises for harassing a member of staff."

"Lay one finger on me and I'll have you for assault. As I'm a minor that would be a spell in the clink no doubt."

"You will have to leave, regardless."

"I won't."

I folded my arms as a crowd gathered. A couple of familiar voices were heard over the murmers.

"Eve, can you come over here?"

Dr Fox was there and the deputy Chief Exec was stood next to her. The senior manager sent the security goons away and dismissed the original antagonist.

I was obviously wound up but had to give a summary to both of them, starting with the appointment and parking problem on Wednesday, adding that mum had suffered a suspected siezure not long afterwards, I added that it might have been caused by stress, although no-one had actually suggested this.

The senior manager shook his head and walked towards the reception manager's office. Dr Fox grabbed my arm and walked me to the cafeteria.

She took me to the self-service counter and we picked up a couple of toasted sandwiches plus a coffee. I went to pay but was told to put my money away, we took a table in a far corner.

"Eve, why didn't you go to see your mum instead of creating a fuss?"

"They were doing tests on her, they knew I'd see her this afternoon as they were waking mum up."

"Right, now what's this about the parking and the Chief Exec's office?"

I went through Wednesday's meeting, without mentioning how much money was involved, followed by the unresolved scan later that morning. I then explained my conversation with Brenda, finishing with a  full re-run of the previous half-hour.

"No wonder you were annoyed, but couldn't it be done quietly?"

"I tried, but he wouldn't listen so I decided that a fuss in public would at least get attention."

"Too true, but risky."

"You know, at every turn I've had problems at this hospital, and you know you were the first."

"You see it that way, but it is tainted with resentment, as I said yesterday. The thing is, how are you going to deal with this?"

"If the hospital idiots back off I'll be fine. We'll know more about mum's condition soon, then we can both go home. I'd be happier not having to come here for any more appointments, if that's possible?"

"I can't speak for the surgical teams but Dr Preston has a practice at St Saviour's Hospital across town, ask if you can see him there. I can see you at your GP surgery if that helps?"

"That sounds better, how soon?"

"I'll look at my schedule and phone your surgery, I'll call later today or tomorrow morning."

"Thanks."

We finally tucked into our lunch and didn't see the Deputy Chief Exec approaching.

"Doctor, Miss Jones, could I have a word?"

We nodded, with mouths full.

"I've reviewed this situation and the hospital is at fault. Whilst security didn't know your car registration when the penalty was imposed, it should have been cancelled as soon as it was brought to our attention. It appears one member of staff passed it to her manager saying you were refusing to pay, omitting to mention your complaint."

"So that accounts for Brenda, who didn't want me to know her name."

"Yes, she has been suspended pending a full investigation."

"What about her manager?"

"He had an opportunity to deal with this and missed it. He's been sent home and will see me on Monday."

"Right, now the ticket?"

"That's been cancelled, of course, and your solicitor has been informed. He has suggested a free parking permit."

"That would help, but as my mother is lying in a bed right now, it would be pretty useless for just her car, we'd need it for any car."

"In that case we'll issue a permit to you and your mother, valid for any car for twelve months."

"That's acceptable, but why are we still having these problems?"

Dr Fox intervened. "I'd agree, Eve and her mother have not received a professional reception here, obviously the hospital has already admitted responsibility but should have learnt. She is currently under my care and her mother is now a patient. This is not a good advert for the hospital."

"I accept what you're saying and I will re-issue our professional standards advice to all support services. Certain individuals will also get personal inspections."

"That might help, but some people are so ingrained in their approach, any changes may be short-lived."

"I understand. I'll investigate a mystery customer approach for out-patients department and I'd like you to report all your visits, good or bad."

"Dr Fox and myself have discussed this and I hope most of my appointments will be elsewhere for now."

"I'm sorry it has come to that."

"So am I."

The deputy Chief Exec walked away to leave just myself and the doctor. I had good reason not to trust her completely, she had conducted the hypnotism, but mum had sanctioned it and had wanted it. Right now Dr Fox was defending me against the hospital's bureaucracy. She was the only one defending me right now.

"Eve, did you want to see your mum before your appointment with Dr Preston?"

"That sounds like a good idea, I've got 45 minutes."

I walked up to the ward where mum was. Her bed was empty so I walked back to the nurses station.

"Excuse me, my mother Debbie Jones was here?"

"I've just come on shift, can you give me a moment?"

I waited for five minutes while she looked, went away, looked again and finally said, "she's gone to neurology."

That was not good news.

Please note that this episode deals with relationships between 16 year olds. Please do not read any further if this subject matter troubles you.

Eve Chapter 31

I was shaking from anger as I slammed the door behind me. I didn't look back, I didn't look forward either, just down at my feet as they were being covered by the rainwater, my sweats were soaked within seconds as well. I stood crying for what must have been ten minutes before the door opened at the next house and Sharon was stood there.

"Eve, what's happened? Come in. Get here now!"

Through the tears I said I'd had a bust up with mum.

"Eve, you're soaked. Get those off and drop them on the kitchen floor. Claire, can you help Eve?"

I dropped my outer clothes on the kitchen floor. I was stood only in my damp underwear when I was helped upstairs, my feet squelching on the carpet. Claire pushed me into the shower room, she then locked the door behind her.

Claire deftly removed my bra and knickers before turning the water on. She then stepped out of all of her clothes, and joined me, holding a bottle of shampoo.

Without saying a word she both washed my matted hair and held on to me, how I don't know. She finished the washing with some shower gell and should have turned the water off but reached for me instead.

We became intimate over the next few minutes, but the electric feeling was shattered by Sharon banging on the door.

Claire helped me out, dried me and held a pink gown up for me, apparently it was Annie's. She then did the same for herself, taking a lemon gown.

I was delirious as she walked me to her room. I fell on her bed and passed out. I don't know how long I was lying there but Sharon was shaking me as I opened my eyes.

"Eve, I know there's some explaining to do, but I need you to listen to me. I went to speak to your mum, to let her know where you were but she was lying on the floor, I think she's had a siezure. I called an ambulance and she's been taken to the District Hospital, you're her next of kin right now so you need to get there too."

I nodded then tried to sit up, my borrowed gown falling open exposing my growing bust. I fumbled then gave up trying to correct this wardrobe malfunction. I saw Claire stood there, holding some of my clothes.

Sharon left the room, muttering, and closed the door. I suppose the horse really has bolted, will any household rules remain after this afternoon's happenings?

Claire helped me up, I tried to stand but fell back onto the bed pulling Claire on top of me. We both giggled, my mind temporarily distracted from the evening's fraught events.

Ten minutes later I was finally decent and went to the bathroom to brush my hair. Annie had apparently fetched my clean clothes and had left a little of my makeup with Claire, which I now applied.

A short while after I joined the girls downstairs, where I was handed my handbag. There was a strange silence, with glances from Sharon to Claire and me. Annie sat there avoiding everyone's eyes, she had a wry smile though.

Sharon drove us to the hospital in complete silence. Once parked, I ran into the A&E department and went straight to the information desk.

"You've brought my mum, Debbie Jones, here. Can I see her?"

"Your name please?"

"Eve Jones."

"I'll let the team know you're here, please take a seat."

I love that warm feeling you don't get from hospitals and today was no different to any other time in Accident & Emergency. Claire sat next to me and wrapped her arms around me.

"Eve, I'm sorry," she whispered.

"Claire, don't be," I whispered back.

"But I took advantage of you."

"Did I object?"

"No, but mum is wild with us, but she won't have a go at you right now, given the circumstances."

We barely noticed the white coat approaching.

"Miss Jones?"

"Yes, er, Doctor Majowski" I read the Doctor's ID card.

"Would you like to come with me. Do you have anyone with you?"

"My girlfriend and her mum."

"Can you get her mum?"

Sharon and Annie had seen our conversation and were heading towards us anyway. We were led to a small room off the A&E waiting area.

Sharon spoke first, "Doctor how is she?"

"Firstly, it's good that she had been found quickly. She had a burst blood vessel in her cranium and we had to operate. She's now recovering but we have her under heavy sedation."

"That's good, can we see her?" I decided I should speak.

"Not yet, you should know that we found bruising on her forehead, do you know how that happened?"

"No, she was fine when I walked out, just very upset."

"Upset?"

"Yes, we'd had an argument. I suggest she needed to see a shrink."

"Why?"

"I suggest you ask Dr Fox, the local shrink, that question."

"Are you seeing Dr Fox?"

"Yes, and now Dr Preston in the Gender Identity Clinic."

"Who found Mrs Jones?"

Sharon answered, "I did, Doctor."

"And how did she look?"

"She was fitting on the floor and there was blood on her temple. I took her pulse and found it was weak; her breathing was shallow."

"Are you a nurse?"

"I was, until these two came along," she looked at her twin daughters.

He took my contact information, as well as Sharon's and then asked if there was an adult family member who should be informed, I gave her my aunt's telephone number. He then suggested we came back in the morning, I got the feeling it would be a long day tomorrow.

By the time we got back home it was gone nine. None of us were hungry but Sharon had stopped for some southern fried chicken which we valiantly tried to finish off.

I phoned my aunt and told her what I knew, of course she wanted to visit straight away but I suggested we meet there at ten in the morning, the hospital would call both of us if there were any changes.

Once washed, I wondered what I should do. My home was next door, but was empty. I sat, clothed, in the lounge with Sharon, the girls were upstairs.

"Eve, I know now is not a good time and I know you weren't yourself, but I'm not impressed with what happened here earlier."

"Sharon, Claire was actually trying to help me. You know we would never take risks but you also knew there would be a physical side to our relationship eventually. I just wasn't expecting it any time soon."

"Yes, but I wasn't prepared for it either. I'd like to think I could just ask that it never happens again, but that would be stupid and futile. I just want to know one thing."

"What's that?"

"That you won't do anything to hurt Claire, and that includes doing anything against her will or doing something now that she or you will regret later."

"Like pregnancy?"

"Like pregnancy."

"Sharon, there's no way I can get aroused now, not at all. I couldn't manage intercourse even if I wanted to, and I don't. Also, earlier today a doctor told me that I may not have any sperm left. Please don't have a go at Claire for simply wanting to get closer to me, hormones took her over, I might not have been expecting it and I was hardly capable of disapproving. I love Claire dearly and I promise you I won't hurt her."

"If I can have your word?"

"You have it."

"Right, what about tonight's sleeping arrangements?"

"I was thinking of going across to my house."

"No way. Borrow some of Claire's PJ's and stay here. We only have the three rooms but I don't want to leave you on your own so you can sleep with Claire, if you want to, as she has a double bed, but no sex, understand? I'll sort this out with your mum later but right now you need support and Claire is the best one to give that, regardless of the implications."

"Yes, thank you Sharon."

I went up and told Claire the deal, she instantly found some PJ's and insisted in helping me strip before dressing me in her nightwear. Since the afternoon, and Monday's bike ride, we had little need for embarrassment.

The two of us slid back downstairs to collect some hot chocolate, which we took back up to Claire's room. Ten minutes later, after a shared expedition to the loo, we were cuddled up together. Of course the 'no sex' rule did not exactly rule out exploring each others' bodies.

We fell asleep happy, despite the night's events.

Friday started gently with little discussion between Tammy and Sarah. After breakfast Tammy rode to the shop with Sarah.

After about an hour of slow trading the shop started filling up. Many of the customers knew that Tammy was going to be a bridesmaid and were asking about where she was from and where she'd been to school.

Of course, Tammy's life history that had sufficed for her Saturday appearances simply did not work on a weekday. Tammy's father had strongly hinted that the truth was needed but the truth right now could cause huge problems for Sarah, not to mention the theatre and the wedding. Tom's place in St Andrew's School was also at risk, at least until his father sorted that out.

Tamara's Debut part 4

Tammy pushed the shop door open and found Sarah looking stunned, thankfully the shop was otherwise deserted. As Tammy approached she could see tears in Sarah's eyes, Sarah dropped a letter on the counter and wrapped her arms around Tammy.

"I don't know what you did, but thank you. You've allowed me to think beyond the next few days."

"What's in the letter?"

"They've given me eight weeks and stopped my interest payments. They've also said that if I reduce my overdraft by £2000 then they'll reconsider."

"That's great. How did it arrive?"

"It turned up just before you got back, delivered by the same man at the bank who had hauled me into his office. He wasn't happy when he came in so just handed me the envelope and went out, without saying a word."

"All we need to do now is get you the trade you need."

"Yes, but I've been trying to do that for a while, and it is never as easy as it sounds. Saturday has been by far my busiest day for several months, but I need to get business by those customers who only browse during the week and don't spend."

"If I have helped with the Saturdays then maybe I can help with that as well."

"Yes." Sarah dried her eyes then looked straight at Tammy. "Can you tell me what you did, or is that a secret?"

"I simply spoke to the manager and explained that I'm an employee of the bank, he worked out for himself that my dad is a director."

"You're what?"

"I have done work experience at the bank, with Dad. He made me a permanent member of staff, but I only get paid when I'm working, the rest of the time I'm being sponsored by the bank, that covers my school fees and will include my future university fees."

"You never mentioned any of this."

"I haven't ever needed to use this before, but rank has it's privileges, as they say."

"I'd say, although I've never approved of that system. Never mind, in this case it's in my favour."

"You're welcome. I did it because you're more than a friend."

"So, did you go there just for me?"

"No. Dad has organised a new debit card for me and I'm now also known as Tamara Smart, I have a solicitor's letter that makes it official."

"Is that everything?"

"Yes, look, you close in quarter of an hour, how about I try on that dress?"

Sarah sent Tammy into one of the changing rooms to strip off down to her underwear, the dress was hanging there ready; Tammy got the feeling that it hadn't been a busy day for Sarah. She climbed into the dress and pulled it up, but couldn't find the fastener.

"Sarah, can you help me?"

Sarah, now with repaired make-up, found a hidden zip up one side and engaged the hook at the top of the zipper. Tammy's white bra straps were very obvious.

"Tammy, the colour's good on you but that bra spoils the effect!"

"I know. I've ordered some lingerie sets on Ebay, they should be here tomorrow as I chose express delivery. The sets were in white, red and black, it said on the website that each of the bras was multiway. Will the red set be alright?"

"Yes, that'll be fine, but if they don't turn up by tomorrow afternoon we'll have to look in town, I haven't the time to take you anywhere."

"If necessary I'll take the bus to Wick and look there."

"Okay, now get changed back."

Ten minutes later Tammy and Sarah were sat eating their lunch when there was a knock on the now-locked shop door. Sarah saw Jill stood there and let her in.

"Hello, I think I owe you an apology, Tammy, I didn't take your email address, did I?"

"No, and I haven't had a chance to phone you, as I don't have your number."

The two of them had a giggle then exchanged details, Jill handed Tammy a business card. Tammy looked at Jill's job title.

"Oh."

"Didn't you know?"

"No."

"That's fine, you know now. Like I said on Monday, everyone in town knows my name and my clinic."

"Yes, but I still wasn't expecting that you'd be a shrink!"

"No, I'm not a shrink, a consultant psychologist with a sideline in psychiatry."

"As I said, a shrink."

"Have it your way, I actually came here to give you a copy of the script so you could have a read through before tonight, not to discuss my doctorates."

"Yes, I'm sorry. It's been an interesting couple of days."

"I'd ask you to talk about it but I'm due back at the hospital and we have an appointment for tomorrow in any case. Bye for now Tammy, bye Sarah."

Sarah had finished her cheese roll, Tammy now did the same as Sarah locked the shop door behind Jill.

"Tammy, I forgot. Your father phoned."

"What did he say?"

"He asked how you were coping but he also said to me, very directly, that I must stop referring to you as my niece and that anyone who asks must be told you are 18. Also, you are to be known as Tamara Smart, not Bonney. Now, how are we going to deal with that?"

"We are going to say that you've always been like an aunt to me, even though we're not related. That will explain the niece element, of course some people may have assumed my surname was Bonney but you didn't like to correct anyone, particularly as it apparently wasn't doing any harm. Most of them will forget that it was you who told them it was Bonney.

"So far as me being sixteen, again that was because some might not believe I was older than that, of course now that I'm old enough to drink or watch 18 rated movies it would be a problem for me, height or otherwise. You could add, if anyone argues, that you can be a little eccentric, particularly after you lost your husband."

"I reckon a few do believe I'm eccentric, only they don't say it to my face. Your father said you'd work out a solution. He thinks alot of you."

"I know, I just don't hear it as often as I would like from him. Mother is a different story."

"Let's get back home and relax, you have to be back at the theatre in a few hours."

They left shortly after and made it back home without incident. Tammy settled, curled on her bed, holding her script.

She was surprisingly aware of the storyline, despite reckoning that she'd never seen it before. Maybe it was one of those times where you switch on the TV ten minutes after a programme has started, but never look up the name of the show in the guides.

At five there was a shout, reminding Tammy that she had to be at the theatre at half six, they therefore had to eat soon. Fortunately, whilst Tammy had been upstairs, Sarah had made an old fashioned stew, just right for beating the cold air. Tammy wasn't sure if she should would be able to do any dancing at the rehearsal, after finishing her plate.

Sarah dropped Tammy off at the theatre and into the custody of the musical director, Sandy Franklin.

"Nice to see you again Tamara."

"Actually I prefer Tammy,"

"Oh, let's get a song done. I want to hear you again. Have you tried any of the songs since Saturday?"

They spent 30 minutes trying the songs until Tammy and the piano agreed about the tune.

The director then needed Tammy to meet the rest of the cast. Tammy was a little surprised to see John Hibbert there. Otherwise the actors were all locals whom Tammy barely knew. They sat on the stage in a ring and did a walk through the script. It was obvious that some would struggle to make it to openeing night but the director, Iain Brown, was kind enough to let the many errors pass by. How long that attitude would hold was another story.

"Everyone, that's enough for tonight but please make sure you take a copy of your script with you, and practice! We meet again here on Friday at the same time. Tammy, could you hang around please?"

The rest of the cast, including John Hibbert, filtered out of the theatre and Tammy was left alone with the director.

"Mr Brown, I need to get home. I've sent Sarah a text to collect me."

"I won't keep you long Tammy, and please call me Iain. It's just that as you're sixteen I need permission from your parent or guardian."

"Iain, I'm eighteen. Sarah can be a little eccentric at times and likes to think of me as a sweet sixteen year old."

"I hope you're not telling me this just to avoid the parental permission."

"Not at all, can you wait a minute?" Tammy retrieved her bag and coat from a hook and returned to the director.

"Here's my work identity card with my name and date of birth under the photo. Is that sufficient?"

"Yes, but I thought you were still at school?"

"I'm just finishing my A levels but the bank sponsors me."

He took a closer look at the card, "it says you are an assistant to the international director."

"Yes, my father, he's in Geneva right now which is why I'm staying with Sarah."

"I hope he comes to the opening night."

"So do I."

Tammy saw Sarah enter the theatre and wave. Tammy said goodbye to Iain and hurried out into the cold. She was very pleased to be back indoors some ten minutes later, the time was now almost 9pm.

Tammy went for a shower and got ready for bed. Her hair, however, was still damp and Tammy did not want to blow dry it. She made a hot chocolate and took it up to her room, switching on her laptop.

There was one from her father asking how her day was. She typed a short reply.

Eve Chapter 29     By Topsy

It was still raining in the morning and the roads were awash, it was a blessing that mum had the car back on the road. I had an appointment at the hospital, yeah it's Wednesday again, so we parked there just after nine and grabbed our brollies for the dash across the carpark to the out-patients department.

We checked in and were told our appointment had been moved to ten o'clock. Mum looked fit to burst when the receptionist added, reluctantly, that the Chief Exec wanted to see us. I don't think she was impressed, she ended up spitting the words out. I guess she wasn't our favourite member of staff at the hospital, unfortunately her immediate manager was stood behind her.

"Good morning Mrs Jones, Miss Jones. Please come this way." He turned to the receptionist, "arrange someone to cover for you. I want you in my office in ten minutes."

He walked round to where we were stood and headed off with us in tow.

"I'm sorry about that. I'll be having a word with my team member about her attitude problem."

"Thank you." Mum was becoming less impressed with the hospital every time we came here, it may have been evident from her voice.

The Chief Exec was waiting for us and arranged for his PA to get some coffee.

"Good morning, please take a seat. I'm sorry I took the liberty of moving your appointment so I could talk to you. Your solicitor Mr Dixon can't be here but says if you feel uncomfortable then I can call him and put him on the conference phone."

The coffee arrived and the PA sat with a notepad. I looked at the Chief Exec, scanning the security badge around his neck.

"Mr Allen, please excuse me, but why is your PA taking notes?"

"Sorry Miss Jones, I should have explained. Miss Smith will take notes and will send you, and your solicitor, a copy. If you have a problem with the minutes, let me know. That way we have a true record of this meeting, this is our normal practice."

"Right." I wasn't convinced but mum seemed to accept it.

He continued, "given the seriousness of the issue I have taken personal charge. As you will know, we have positively identified one member of staff as having made the phone call cancelling your appointment last Wednesday. We have interviewed other staff who were on duty on the days you said you encountered him and we found he was making enquiries about you, Miss Jones. I understand he also made some disparaging comments about you, we are obtaining written testimony from several staff."

"That confirms my original suspicions." Mum was quite serious, and Mr Allen could see it.

"Having read my deputy's report, I'd have to agree that this is more than circumstantial. As you may be aware, we have had difficulty persuading him to report here for interview. We eventually found Mr Stevens last night in his local pub and served a dismissal notice on him. I can't say that he was impressed, according to our solicitor. Whilst I can't go into any detail, he has had two previous warnings, so our options were limited. He has the right to an employment tribunal but we have sufficient evidence to take him to court for fraud if necessary so we expect him to go quietly."

"I'd like to protect my daughter from further court action if possible. We already have to deal with his son."

"Believe me, we will use every sensible legal approach to deal with this quietly, I obviously do not want to have the good name of the hospital ruined my one man." Mum coughed as he said 'good name'."Jill?" he looked at the PA, "scratch that last sentence."

"Now, Mrs Jones, Miss Jones, I would like to make amends for the hurt that has happened here. My deputy has made an offer which I believe you have turned down. I'd like to make an alternative offer. We will write a cheque  for £7,500 plus I will give you a written guarantee that will mean that any further surgery or hospitalisation in the next ten years will be fully funded if you choose to have it done here privately, instead of on the NHS. That includes any plastic surgery or even surgery to correct your little problem." He looked straight at me, making me blush.

"Could my daughter and I have a few moments alone?"

"Certainly, would you like to use my side room?"

We went into the room, which turned out to be the boardroom, and sat at the large table.

"Eve, do you know what this means?"

"I think I do. I've done some research on the net about people like me, that's if there is anyone else exactly like me."

"So what do you think?"

"I'll have to talk to the shrink on Friday but I don't reckon they'll do anything before my 18th birthday and there's a wait on the NHS."

"That's ok dear. You don't need to worry yet, but your 18th is only just over a year, remember? Now, let's think. What he's offered is a reasonable sum plus ten years of free medical insurance, queue jumping it used to be called. It won't affect the normal stuff of course, the NHS covers that."

"So do we take it?"

"I'll give a tentative yes, then we have a few days to think it over. Wait until after your appointment on Friday."

"That's reasonable."

We walked back in, Mr Allen was just coming off the phone.

"Ladies, have you come to a decision?"

"Mr Allen, my daughter and I feel that the private surgery guarantee is very generous. But I'm afraid that if your former employee, Mr Stevens, continues harassing my daughter as a result of his dismissal, my legal bills will be high. Our distress could continue for some time."

"Mrs Jones, I fully understand, I sometimes balk at what the Trust's solicitor charges." He laughed, "how about I give you £10,000 and cover all your current or related legal costs?"

"That is reasonable."

Mr Allen stood and mum shook hands with him, then it was my turn.

"I'll write to you and I'll send the cheque to Mr Dixon."

"Thank you."

Mum and I walked down to the cafe, I was now half an hour late for my delayed appointment but needed to talk to mum, urgently. We didn't even bother going to the counter to get a drink.

I asked an open question, guessing that mum would work out what I meant, "why?"

"Sorry dear, as we walked back into his office I just had an idea and I didn't have time to discuss it."

"That's not good enough."

"Not even for two and a half thousand reasons?"

That stumped me, temporarily. "That's irrelevant. This is my character that was being assassinated. You could have taken me back into that boardroom."

"Eve, I'm your mum and you're under eighteen. That means I get to make all the decisions for you, regardless."

Mum has never spoken to me like that before.

"I'm not a little girl any more!" I got up and stormed out.

I was stood outside, staring into space, when mum found me.

"Eve, let's have this discussion later. I've been to see Doctor Roberts and he is now waiting for us. Did you know he's a genitourinary specialist? He's barely tolerated the Chief Exec's disruption to your appointment and wants to get moving, he says it's important."

Mum led me back inside and to an examination room marked obstetrics. I recognised the word, but couldn't remember its meaning.

"Good morning Eve. I'm glad you made it. Please sit down. I'd like to have a word before I examine you."

He was smiling through white teeth that slightly unsettled me. Mum however was smiling back. Did she fancy him? Oh, he wasnt wearing a wedding ring.

"Eve, I've read your file and understand that your body is awash with female hormones. We have suspected until now that it was down to the pituitary gland but I can't believe that's the whole story here."

He waited a few seconds before continuing, "now, was it ever your intention to have children?"

What a question.

"I hadn't considered it. I'm only sixteen, nearly seventeen, and haven't discussed that with my girlfriend."

"That's alright, I didn't need a full answer now in any case. What I do have to say however is that you may not be able to have children after all. It is entirely possible that your sperm have died, or are dying, because your testes may be permanently damaged. That is one of the things I hope to establish today."

Despite his ominous words, somehow I was reassured, perhaps it was his bedside manner?

Eve Chapter 27 by Topsy

We arrived at the hospital a few minutes early for my appointment with the Gender Identity specialist. Dr Fox met us in reception and introduced us to Dr Preston but did not go into the room with us, closing the door behind her.

"Good morning ladies. Eve I presume."

"Yes."

After a few minutes he asked mum to leave the room. I wasn't sure about some of the questions but he was making notes even when I gave silly answers to silly questions. He then asked mum to come in and I was to wait outside, Dr Fox was waiting there.

"So Eve, how did it go?"

"It was alright. No worse than your interrogations."

"Fair enough."

I was called back in, this time Dr Fox came in as well.

"Eve, from the moment I met you I saw a confident young lady, I still do. I know you have been under Dr Fox for a month and I also know you have made your mind up, but it has only been a month. I'd like to see you again on Friday afternoon, just you, okay?"

"Dr Preston, I'm not happy with my daughter being here unescorted."

Dr Fox interjected, "Mrs Jones, I will be here with Eve. You come here if you wish but we'll only need Eve for the session."

We left an hour after we'd arrived. There was plenty of time before our appointment downtown. Mum had an idea as we reached the car.

"How about we go to that furniture store on the retail park?"

"The huge one?"

"Yep."

We pulled into the carpark twenty minutes later. We walked into this warehouse and stared at the signs until a young man with a name badge arrived.

"Can I help you, ladies?"

"Yes, bedroom furniture please."

"Up the stairs and left at the top."

"Thank you."

Half an hour later we'd identified a small dressing table and long mirror that would suit my room. We accosted another member of staff and arranged for payment and delivery, Mum's little car was not up to the job. We walked across to the curtains and bedding, picking up a new set of each for my room. Those we did take with us.

We called into Tesco's and intended to pick up a few bits but ended up with a trolley full of food and other bits. Since this was one of the larger stores they did clothes as well. I gained some school style skirts and trousers, a body warmer and a winter coat. We bought some hot chicken and fresh rolls for lunch.

We'd finished lunch by one and mum sent me up to change.

"Wash first and take all your make-up off."

Mum had figured that if I was to make a good impression as a school girl, I should appear as one. I figured that as I was in the sixth form I could wear what I wanted to, apparently I was wrong. Where was Claire when I needed her?

I was told to apply simple makeup. We parked up in town just before two and walked round to Mr Dixon's office.

"Please come in. I've asked Mr Davis, Chair of the Governors, to join us in fifteen minutes, in the meantime I'd like to talk about the main issues."

"So we get the story straight?" I offered.

"Quite Miss Jones, but I wouldn't normally put it like that."

"So what approach will we take?" Asked mum.

"I believe the accident at the school is just that, an accident. We could argue that the stress of being told Eve was female, according to their records, was relevant but they would contest that the tumour caused her collapse. In any case, Eve has decided to become female since then."

"That is reasonable."

"Now, what is obvious that confidential records have been released and there has been a campaign of harassment. These originated with one member of staff but the school will have to take responsibility."

"Ms Holts?"

"Yes, although it appears she has now resigned. We'll concentrate on this issue."

"Right."

"While you're here I'll just mention the hospital. It seems that David Stevens Snr has missed several shifts and they are preparing dismissal papers. The Chief Executive has now taken over this case and is apparently angry. He wishes to apologise for the distress caused and has offered to send a cheque for £5,000. We could argue but I believe it is a fair settlement."

Mum wanted to appear calm, I just had a broad smile on my face.

"I'm not convinced Mr Dixon. My daughter has suffered harrassment over several weeks by this man, using hospital records. The out-patients appointment was just the last straw."

"I'll put your view back to the hospital trust but I can't promise anything."

"Okay."

There was a knock on the door. Two gentlemen walked in.

"Good morning Frances, Harold."

"Mrs Jones, Miss Jones, may I introduce Frances Davis of the Governing Body and Harold Spinner the Head Teacher, who I believe you both know."

We acknowledged the two. I thought I saw a wink from the Head.

I quickly got the impression that Mr Dixon and Mr Davis knew each other well.

"Frances, how are we going to sort out these problems?"

The school governor addressed Mr Dixon, "John, we reviewed the accident report and saw that the school was not culpable and we hope you see that the same way."

"My clients have accepted that they do not blame the school for the accident."

"Thank you. Regarding the release of confidential information and the misuse of the school computer system we interviewed Ms Anne Holts. Without waiting for the outcome of our investigations she has resigned. We will leave it to the LEA how they follow up any remaining employment issues."

"So does the school accept responsibility for these actions?"

"We do, further more we are in the process of implementing safeguards to prevent this from happening in the future. Other schools in the district have already made the necessary changes. It appears we were not directly informed of the need. That is a related issue."

"So this could have been prevented?"

"I wouldn't say that as such, but we should have been able to identify any problems earlier and for that we must apologise."

"Now, what about the harassment at the school, both to my clients present and my clients who cannot be here?"

"Again, we believe that we could have dealt with Mr Stevens sooner if the right information had been available. I'm afraid I can't elaborate further but please let me assure you that the revised anti-harassment policy is strict and future attitudes such as the one that Ms Johnson encountered will not be tolerated. To that end we have permanently excluded Mr Stevens."

"There was another boy involved in the incident with Ms Johnson."

"Indeed and we have reviewed his case carefully. Certain undertakings have been sought and received and whilst he is under threat of exclusion he has returned to school following suspension. He has no more chances. Please forgive me if I don't mention his name, under our confidentiality rules."

"Thank you Frances. Harold, would you like to say anything?"

"Thank you John. Firstly I'd like to say that I am looking forward to seeing Eve back at school. Whilst I must accept that the school is partly responsible for the some problems you have encountered I'd hope that you can return soon."

"Mr Spinner, I am looking forward to returning, but I believe we have some issues to discuss before then?"

Mum spoke, "Mr Spinner, I'd agree with Eve. Can we meet with you when we're finished here?"

"Certainly."

"All, thank you. I believe we have dealt with all bar one issue. The question of compensation."

"John, do you feel this is necessary?"

"Frances, my client has had her character dissected across the school as a result of lax policies that have only been changed because of her problems."

"John, obviously I need to discuss this with the relevant governors. Can I get back to you?"

"Certainly. If that's all?"

We all thanked Mr Dixon and left his office.