Chapter Eight

March 1941

More than four months had passed since Poppy and Izzy’s departure and a lot had happened during that time. The Luftwaffe had shattered Christmas with a three-night raid – something that none of them had been expecting. Whether or not the Luftwaffe had been testing the water to see what the reaction of the British would be, nobody knew, but all were thankful when the Germans ceased their attack.

Cadi had been serving behind the bar a few weeks after her eighteenth birthday when a man she didn’t know had approached the bar asking for Maria. Cadi had just turned to fetch the other woman through when Maria appeared in the doorway that divided the bar from the kitchen. Before Cadi had a chance to speak, Maria ran round the other side of the bar and jumped into the stranger’s arms.

‘Bill!’

Cadi stared open-mouthed. She had seen pictures of Bill, but they looked nothing like the man who stood before her. His left eye and ear were both heavily bandaged, and his left leg was encased in plaster.

The bar had fallen silent as Bill explained his injuries. Trapped in occupied France, he and a couple of mates had faced a dangerous journey to the coast across ground still sown with bombs and tripwires. Had it not been for a feral cat setting off a hidden mine, they would never have survived.

‘I’d been closest, so I took the worst of the shrapnel,’ Bill explained. ‘Somehow my mates persuaded a French fishing boat to take us on board, and that’s how we got back to Blighty. They don’t think I’ll ever recover the sight in my left eye or the hearing in my ear, so you’ll have to shout, as I’m a bit Mutt ’n’ Jeff on the left side. There is some good news, though – they’ve said I can get an office job once my wounds have healed.’ He heaved a heartfelt sigh. ‘Left to me, I’d be out somewhere like a shot doing my bit, but not if I’m a liability.’

With his tale told, Maria had taken him through to the back and left Cadi to continue serving. When Jez had come in later on that evening, Cadi had told him of Bill’s arrival.

‘Poor sod,’ said Jez, ‘but it could’ve been worse.’

‘If it hadn’t been for that poor cat, Bill might not be here at all,’ agreed Cadi.

At first she had worried that Bill’s presence might change things, and in some respects it did, because they could no longer offer two rooms at the B&B. However, this had taken some of the pressure off Cadi’s shoulders, and with Bill back behind the bar until his injuries healed, she was able to live the sociable life of a young woman.

Jez had been delighted to take Cadi all over Liverpool, and she had enjoyed every minute of their time together. Dancing with Poppy had always been fun, but dancing with Jez was a whole new experience. Much to Cadi’s delight, he turned out to be a brilliant dancer, never putting a foot wrong, not only on the dance floor but in the way he behaved towards her. This only cemented her feelings towards him, and it had been at one of these dances that the inevitable – as far as Poppy was concerned – happened.

Jez had, as always, been the perfect gentleman, and as he held Cadi close during the last dance of the evening, she had found herself yearning for him to cast his gentlemanly behaviour aside. As the music faded she had looked up into his eyes and melted as they twinkled down at her. She couldn’t say what exactly, but something changed between them, and the gaze of affection turned into something far more intense. Without having to say a word, they both knew what was going to happen, and as they flitted their attention between each other’s mouth and eyes, their lips finally met. Having never been kissed before, Cadi had always worried she might get it wrong somehow. But Jez had been gentle and the kiss so natural that she felt as if she’d been kissing him her whole life. With not a sliver of space between their bodies, her heart raced as he continued to kiss her until the lights illuminated the room.

She might not have been able to tell Poppy in person, but she had rung the Sandhurst NAAFI the very next day to tell her friend the news.

Cadi had leaned back from the earpiece as Poppy squealed excitedly down the phone. ‘Didn’t I say?’ she said, after she had calmed down. ‘I knew you two would make a perfect couple and I was right.’

‘You were indeed, although I always knew you were – it was simply my fear of being tied down that got in the way.’

Poppy giggled. ‘Isn’t that what the fellers are supposed to say?’

‘Talking of fellers,’ said Cadi, swiftly changing the subject, ‘are you and Izzy fighting them off with sticks?’

There was a short pause before Poppy’s voice came coyly down the receiver. ‘I dunno about fighting them off, but there’s more fellers here than you can poke a stick at. I feel like a kid in a sweet shop.’

This time it was Cadi’s turn to giggle. ‘Poppy! I don’t think I’ve ever heard you talk that way about the opposite sex.’ She hesitated, as that wasn’t the only thing about Poppy that had altered. ‘You seem to have changed quite a bit – you sound more …’ Cadi fell silent as she tried to think of the right word.

‘Confident,’ said Poppy simply. ‘I know I wasn’t exactly huge, but I’ve lost a fair bit of weight being here; the exercise is doing me the world of good, and driving gives you a real sense of freedom. I know you say you love being running the B&B, but I really think you’d be in your element here, because when you’re driving it feels like you really are your own boss. And when something goes wrong, you can fix it yourself. I’ve already ruined one pair of stockings …’

‘Stockings! What on earth would you need your stockings for?’

‘Fan belt,’ said Poppy plainly.

‘I don’t even know what one of those is,’ admitted Cadi. ‘You really are learning new things.’

‘And all that helps with my confidence. Women really do lead sheltered lives, when it comes down to it, but when you start learning all the things men already know, it makes you feel more like an equal.’

‘Sounds idyllic,’ said Cadi.

‘It is,’ cried Poppy. ‘So why don’t you come and join us?’

Cadi smiled and her silence spoke volumes.

‘Jez!’ said Poppy

‘Amongst other things,’ admitted Cadi. ‘Is there anything you don’t like about the WAAF?’

‘The food’s dire, and you have to look after your own cutlery – only they call them irons; they make you dunk them in a huge tub of boiling hot water, and quite often I’m sure they come out with more than they went in with. That’s enough about me, though. I want to hear about you and Jez: are you joined at the hip?’

‘Ye-es, although I’m glad we are. I love spending time with him, Poppy, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I miss him terribly when he’s at work, and I find myself watching the door for his arrival.’

‘I bet Maria’s cock-a-hoop.’

‘That’s putting it mildly. She’s already planning the wedding.’

‘Wedding?’ said Poppy, her tone lifting.

‘Not yet,’ giggled Cadi. ‘So you can stop getting ahead of yourself.’

‘You are serious, though?’ hazarded Poppy.

‘He took me to meet his nan, so I’d say so.’

‘Well! That’s practically an offer of marriage,’ said Poppy knowledgeably. ‘Meeting the folks is a serious thing – what’s she like?’

‘Adorable. She’s kind, funny, and she dotes on Jez. We got on like a house on fire.’

‘What about your folks? What did they say, although I can imagine your father wasn’t best pleased?’

‘That’s an understatement. Dad tried to draw comparisons between Jez and Aled, saying that a docker’s wage wasn’t enough to support one person, never mind two people, unlike a farmer.’

‘Didn’t you explain that Jez is a supervisor, not a docker?’

‘Of course, but according to Dad a supervisor is a “glorified docker”. Honestly, Poppy, in some respects my father is as pig-headed as Eric when it comes to not seeing things from someone else’s point of view.’

‘Well, he’ll have to come round sooner or later, because I can’t see Jez going anywhere.’

Now, as Cadi placed the pint she had been pulling on the bar, she took Jez’s money. ‘Do you realise I’ve not been home for well over a year, and it’s all because of my father?’

Taking a sip, Jez wiped the froth from his top lip. ‘If you believe he’s never going to come round to your way of thinking, then you might as well go back sooner rather than later.’

‘Why? So he can point out everything that he believes to be wrong in my life? Because that’s what he’ll do, and he won’t like it when I tell him he hasn’t got a clue what he’s talking about. He’ll get in a mood and storm out, and I’ll be left with Mum asking me to see things from his point of view. But why should I, when he won’t do the same? I’ve asked them to come to the pub more times than I care to remember, but they refuse, on the grounds that Dad’s a total and utter—’

Jez held up a hand. ‘Whoa there! I can see you’re not happy.’

‘Not happy? Would you be happy if your father—’ She ceased speaking immediately, ‘Oh Jez, I’m so sorry, I didn’t think.’

He gave a nonchalant shrug. ‘Not to worry. But for the record, if my father were around and acting like yours, I would hope that one of us would take the higher ground, especially when there’s a war on.’

Cadi rested her hands over the top of the pump handle. ‘I couldn’t agree more, and seeing as he’s not only the eldest, but the one who’s being the most objectionable, I think it should be him.’

Maria, who had been listening with half an ear, walked over. ‘If you were saying “she”, not “he”, you do realise you’d not have this problem?’

‘Yes! Because a woman would listen to reason.’

‘Am I getting picked on again?’ asked Jez cautiously.

Maria waved her tea towel at him. ‘We never include you in these chats, on account of you not being like most men.’

He cocked a quizzical eyebrow. ‘Should I be flattered?’

‘Yes,’ chorused both women.

‘You can tell you’ve been brought up by a woman,’ said Maria. ‘None of that macho rubbish.’

‘Of course,’ said Cadi. ‘I hadn’t thought of it before, but that makes perfect sense.’

‘Am I right in saying that this is still good?’ ventured Jez, who wasn’t sure whether the girls were making him out to be a sissy or not.

‘Very good,’ said Cadi. ‘Don’t change for anyone, Jez – you’re perfect just as you are!’

He was beaming. ‘I’ll have to tell Nan,’ he paused, before adding, ‘or maybe not, as she’ll only cook me something as a treat.’

‘I don’t believe your nan’s cooking can be that bad,’ chuckled Cadi.

Jez took a few gulps of his beer before answering. ‘Depends on what she’s making. As a general rule of thumb, if it needs heating in any way it’s doomed before she starts.’

Cadi let out a shriek of laughter. ‘I bet she makes wonderful food.’

‘She makes the best butties, for which I’m grateful, otherwise I would’ve died of hunger – or food poisoning – a long time ago.’

‘So is that the only reason why you’re with me?’ purred Cadi. ‘For food?’

He gave her one of his cheesy grins. ‘Don’t be silly – the beer has a lot to do with it.’ He dodged out of the way as Cadi leaned across the bar. ‘I’m only joshing.’

Laughing, Maria shook her head. ‘The sooner you two get married, the better.’

Cadi’s face fell.

‘Good God, surely the idea of marrying me isn’t that bad?’ said Jez in hurt tones.

She smiled fleetingly. ‘Unless my father changes his attitude, what’ll happen on my wedding day? Every girl dreams of her father giving them away, but mine’s barely talking to me. If he doesn’t approve of our relationship, I can hardly see him giving his blessing, never mind walking me down the aisle.’

‘Which is why you should make the effort to go and see him,’ said Jez patiently.

Cadi nodded. ‘I will, because you’re right, one of us has to relent; and if that’s me, then so be it.’

Maria looked expectantly at the door to the pub. ‘I’m fed up to the back teeth of people booking and then not bothering to turn up.’

‘Not another one,’ tutted Cadi disgustedly. ‘Can’t you complain to the RAF?’

‘They aren’t interested. As far as they’re concerned, we should be more understanding.’

‘Don’t they understand that this is our bread and butter?’

Maria shrugged. ‘Apparently those three little words can get you out of anything.’

Jez lifted his head. ‘“I love you?”’

‘“We’re at war”,’ said Maria. ‘It seems to be a get-out clause for just about everything nowadays.’

As she spoke the door to the pub swung open and a young man in RAF uniform entered. Smiling broadly, he approached the bar. ‘Hello, Cadi, long time no see.’

Cadi blinked as she stared at the stranger, only realising after a second or two exactly who she was looking at. ‘Aled!’

He grinned. ‘You do remember me then. I thought I’d pop by and see how you’re getting on with your new venture.’

Hearing the strong lilt of his Welsh accent, Jez looked the other man up and down. ‘The Aled?’

Aled raised an eyebrow. ‘Sounds like you’ve been talking about me, and there I was thinking you never cared.’

‘You’ve got a nerve,’ said Cadi, her tone leaden.

Aled looked perplexed. ‘Apparently I was right. Although I’m not entirely sure what warrants such a reaction?’

‘You know exactly what I’m talking about,’ snapped Cadi. ‘You told lies about Maria using underage staff to serve beer.’ She tutted bitterly. ‘As if you didn’t know.’

Aled gaped at her. He hadn’t the foggiest idea what she was on about, so he said as much. Adding, ‘Why would I? What would be the point?’

‘Because you were jealous of me leaving home whilst you were stuck on the smelly farm,’ said Cadi.

Aled pointed at his jacket. ‘Only I’m not stuck on the farm, and I haven’t been for a long time. I don’t know where you get your notions from, but they’re ludicrous.’

Cadi placed her hands on her hips. ‘Oh, please! How many other Welsh men are there who’d go out of their way to cause such trouble?’

He stared at her incredulously. How could she seriously think he would do such a thing, instead of seeing the most obvious answer? ‘Well, I can think of one straight off the bat.’

‘Oh aye, who?’ said Cadi, her eyes narrowing.

‘Your father, that’s who,’ snapped Aled.

She stared at him, her mouth dropping open. She wanted to deny his accusations, but how could she, when they’d just been discussing how much her father disapproved of her life. She glanced at Maria. ‘Oh my God …’

Aled cleared his throat, swinging Cadi’s attention back to him.

‘It really wasn’t you?’ she asked hoarsely.

‘No,’ repeated Aled, adding in kinder tones, ‘Bloomin’ ’eck, Cadi. I know I could be a bit of a swine when we were growing up, but I’d never set out to destroy someone else’s dreams, particularly when they matched my own.’

Embarrassed at her outburst, Cadi lowered her gaze. ‘I’m so sorry, Aled, I really am. I don’t know why, but your name was the first that sprang to mind.’

He chuckled softly. ‘I think we’ve had our wires crossed quite often, but that’s a world away from something as vindictive as this. Not that I’m accusing your father of being vindictive,’ he added hastily.

She waved a hand. ‘Don’t stick up for him, because that’s exactly what he is. He couldn’t persuade me to come home, so he obviously thought he’d force me to.’ She held a hand to her forehead. ‘I don’t know why I didn’t see it sooner.’

‘Because he’s your father,’ said Jez, ‘and you didn’t want to think badly of him.’

She held her hand out to Aled. ‘Can we start again?’

Accepting the offer of an apology, Aled shook her hand. ‘Good idea. And whilst we’re at it, why don’t we clear up a few other things?’

Cadi nodded mutely. She was thoroughly embarrassed and ashamed that she had been so quick to judge Aled; not only that, but she felt certain he was going to recap the many other occasions when she had accused him of doing her wrong. Her eyes flickered over his uniform. He looked a lot smarter than he did in overalls and wellies.

‘I didn’t cover you in manure on purpose that day, and I did mean to apologise. But you did look rather absurd, and the crosser you got, the more ridiculous you looked – for which I am well and truly sorry.’ He drew a deep breath before continuing. ‘I also seem to remember pulling a chair out when you were about to sit down. Again I can only apologise, because I really didn’t do it on purpose.’

An image of herself covered in manure formed in Cadi’s mind, and a giggle escaped her lips. ‘I suppose I did look rather comical – not that I thought so at the time.’

Aled arched an eyebrow. ‘Am I forgiven?’

Cadi nodded, adding, ‘I can only hope you look where you’re going when you’re flying your kite!’

Aled laughed. ‘You don’t have to look where you’re going when you’re sitting in the arse-end of a plane.’

Cadi’s smile vanished in an instant. ‘Tail-end Charlie?’

‘That’s me!’ he said jovially. ‘Point and shoot and try not to get shot. It couldn’t be more simple, apart from the not-getting-shot bit of course.’

‘Oh, I always assumed …’

‘What?’ said Aled, a smirk playing on his lips. ‘That the great Aled would become a pilot?’ The smirk broadened into a grin. ‘Not got the brains, apparently.’ A slight frown creased his brow. ‘Shame really, cos I always thought I was rather good at maths.’

For a moment Cadi wondered if he was poking fun at the time he had offered to tutor her, but could see by his face that the thought hadn’t crossed his mind.

She felt her cheeks grow warm. All her life she had thought Aled to be the bad one, but she could see now that she had been the one assuming everything, and so far she’d been wrong on all counts. She looked at the beer pumps. ‘Can I buy you a drink by way of an apology?’

‘Don’t be daft, and there’s really no need to keep apologising …’ Aled began, but Cadi insisted.

She pointed to the Burton pump handle. ‘This do you?’

‘Yes, but it really isn’t necessary.’

‘It’ll make me feel better,’ said Cadi. ‘I know you’re in the RAF, and what you do, but how’s everything otherwise?’

Thanking Cadi for the drink, Aled took a sip. ‘Wonderful. In fact I couldn’t be happier. I don’t mind admitting it was a bit of a shock to the system at first, but once you get used to it, service life is grand.’

‘What took you so long to join up?’ asked Cadi.

‘My father and yours have quite a bit in common, when it comes to keeping their kids at home.’

‘They have?’ said Cadi, her interest piqued.

‘God, yes. My father was fighting tooth and nail to keep me on the farm.’ Aled took another sip of his beer, then chuckled. ‘You were right when you said I was jealous of you swanning off into the sunset whilst I was stuck on the farm, up to my knees in pig poop. When I heard how well you were doing in Liverpool, I figured if two young girls could do it, then so could I. So I snuck off and enlisted behind their backs. Dad was furious, Mum not so much.’

‘He’s got our Alun working for him now, though,’ said Cadi casually.

‘He certainly has, and for once in his life he’s having to pay someone a proper wage, which is more than I ever got.’

Cadi’s eyes widened. ‘He didn’t pay you?’

Aled grinned. ‘Nope. He’d buy me everything I needed, and if I wanted something in particular he’d get it for me, but he never physically handed me my own money.’

‘Well, I’ll be …! My father thinks you’re rolling in it.’ She started to laugh. ‘Would you mind awfully if I told him?’

Aled shook his head. ‘Go for it! I expect the news would raise a few eyebrows.’

‘It would.’ She glanced at Jez, who was sitting quietly. ‘How rude of me. Aled, meet Jez, my boyfriend.’

The two men shook hands, but Jez noticed a slight dulling in Aled’s eyes when Cadi referred to him as her boyfriend. When Aled had first come in, Jez had been hopeful that Cadi would send him packing with a flea in his ear – as she had always said she would – so it had come as a nasty surprise when Cadi not only forgave Aled his past misdemeanours, but offered the hand of friendship.

It seemed typical to Jez that just as he got the girl of his dreams, a handsome daredevil walked into her life. Cadi might think her father would change his mind about Aled once he heard that money was tight on the farm, but Jez didn’t think so. It would be the land and the security of the farm that her father found appealing, and the money would come when Aled took over from his parents.

He then wondered what Cadi’s father would say when she went home and told him how Aled had suggested that it was he who had reported Maria. No doubt Cadi’s father would not thank Aled for telling tales. It might even cause him to change his tune and decide that Jez wasn’t so bad after all.

‘What’s making you smile?’ asked Cadi curiously.

Jez shrugged. ‘Just thinking: we’re always talking about how things turn out, and this evening’s been a prime example.’

Cadi mulled his words over. He was right: had Aled not arrived, she would never have known how devious her father could be; and neither would she have known that she had got Aled all wrong. He wasn’t the pompous, stuck-up, spotty little oik she had once accused him of being. Far from it; he was humble, unassuming and, she smiled, the spots were gone, a neat moustache in their place. She wondered what Poppy would think if she could see Aled now. She would have to tell her friend how much the man she had once referred to as her nemesis had changed.

Aled sat back on his bar stool. ‘Where’s Poppy?’

Cadi explained how Poppy had joined the WAAF with their friend Izzy.

Aled eyed Cadi inquisitively. ‘Why didn’t you sign up? I thought that’s why you’d left home in the first place?’

‘It was,’ admitted Cadi, ‘but life got in the way.’

He furrowed his brow. ‘How d’you mean?’

She waved a hand around the bar. ‘This place – not only is it my place of work, but it’s my home and I love it here. I more or less run the B&B, and now that I’m old enough to serve behind the bar, I do that too. I’m not sure I could stand taking orders from some jumped-up sergeant.’

‘What does Poppy think of the WAAF?’

‘She loves it! She’s a driver in the MT.’ She grinned. ‘I can’t imagine our Poppy behind the wheel of a lorry.’

As she spoke someone else entered the bar. It was a woman in WAAF uniform. Cadi had opened her mouth to say that they had no more rooms for the night, when Aled turned to greet the newcomer.

‘You found us then.’

Eyeing Cadi with extreme disapproval, the woman nodded curtly. ‘I must admit I hoped I’d got the wrong address at first.’ She cast a disapproving eye around the bar. ‘Are you really staying here?’

‘I certainly am.’ Aled swivelled on his seat. ‘Cadi, this is Daphne – we’re stationed at the same base.’

Cadi stared at the woman in her smart uniform. She was around the same height as her, with dark hair and equally dark eyes. Cadi never compared herself to anyone, but she now found herself doing just that. Cadi was wearing her favourite dress, a beautiful blue frock with a sweetheart neckline and black court shoes; she loved her outfit, and not only because Jez had bought it for her as a Christmas present. It always made her feel smart and important, but it paled in comparison to the neat uniform that Daphne was wearing.

She cursed herself inwardly for comparing herself to such a rude individual. The woman might look smart, but she clearly had no manners. If it was left to Cadi, she would have shown Daphne the door, but as she was a friend of Aled’s, she decided to give the woman the benefit of the doubt.

Smiling sweetly, she raised her hand to the glasses above her head. ‘Hello, Daphne, can I get you something to drink?’

The woman glanced around the bar as though she thought having a drink here would make her ill. ‘No thank you.’

Cadi shrugged her indifference. ‘As you wish,’ and she turned her attention back to Aled. ‘We’re doing corned-beef hash with mash and onion gravy, if you’d like some?’

Aled was about to nod when Daphne began to protest. ‘Oh no, Aled, can’t we go somewhere a little,’ she wrinkled her nose as she eyed her surroundings, ‘more suitable?’

Cadi stared icily at the other woman. She knew, from what Poppy had told her, that the cookhouse wasn’t a patch on the meals they served in the Greyhound. She glanced at Aled. She’d never have described Poppy as a friend of Aled’s, but she wanted to get under Daphne’s skin. ‘Our pal Poppy’s in the WAAF and she reckons the food to be pretty grim, and the surroundings even worse, with some disgusting great bin full of boiling water that you have to dip your irons in.’ She shot the woman a sarcastic smile, the words leaving her lips like knives. ‘I’m afraid we can’t stoop to the standards you’re used to.’

Roaring with laughter, Aled clapped his hands together. ‘She’s spot on!’ Still grinning, he turned to Daphne, who was scowling at Cadi. ‘Come on, Daph, you’re always complaining about the grub. And as for that water you have to dip your irons in, they probably come out dirtier than they went in.’

‘Which is why I wanted to go somewhere with a little more class,’ said Daphne stiffly. ‘I know you wanted to drop your stuff off and say a quick hello, but surely we don’t have to spend the whole evening here?’

Cadi had been watching Daphne as she spoke to Aled. The woman was looking at him as though she thought him the most wonderful man in the world. So she’s jealous! thought Cadi. Only why be jealous of me? Surely Aled must have told her that we never used to get along? But whether Aled had or hadn’t, it didn’t make the slightest bit of difference to Daphne, who seemed hell-bent on getting him as far away from Cadi as she could. It was something that annoyed Cadi, who had done nothing to provoke such a reaction. Reaching across the bar, she replenished Aled’s empty glass. ‘It would be a shame for you to shoot off so soon, especially when we’re just getting to know each other again.’

Jez shifted his weight. ‘Unless Aled would like to show Daphne a bit of the city?’

Completely ignoring his suggestion, Aled looked at Daphne. ‘Are we saying two plates of corned-beef hash or only the one?’

Daphne glanced at Jez, then turned her gaze back to Aled, who was staring fixedly at her. Realising that he wasn’t going to take heed of Jez’s proposal, she tutted before replying ‘Two’ rather sullenly.

‘Wonderful!’ said Cadi. ‘If you’d like to take a seat, I’ll fetch them through.’

Jez leaned over from the bar. ‘Need a hand?’

Cadi shook her head. ‘We’re only plating up – shan’t be a mo.’

Jez watched as Daphne began to walk towards the back of the pub, but Aled called her back. ‘Don’t go all the way over there, silly. Let’s sit here.’ He indicated a table closer to the bar.

Maria had followed Cadi into the kitchen. ‘Well, well, well! It seems you’ve ruffled someone’s feathers.’

‘I know, but I don’t see why. It’s not as if Aled and I are best buddies,’ said Cadi as she doled out the food onto the plates.

‘That’s not what she thinks,’ said Maria as she watched the pair through the kitchen door. ‘And a blind man could see the twinkle in his eye when he speaks to you.’

Cadi frowned. ‘I don’t think so.’

Maria popped a slice of carrot into her mouth. ‘Why don’t you ask Jez, cos I’m not the only one who’s noticed.’

Cadi picked up the plates. ‘What on earth makes you think that?’

‘Because I’ve got eyes in my head, and so has Jez. Poor bugger’s face dropped when Aled walked in, and I can’t say as I blame him. It’s only natural he should feel threatened by someone as smart and handsome as Aled, especially the way he looks at you.’ Maria shook her head. ‘Whether you realise it or not, Jez has competition – and he knows it.’

‘I think I know who I’m interested in, and it’s not Aled.’

Tilting her head to one side, Maria viewed Cadi inquisitively. ‘Maybe not, but I’d wager the feeling isn’t mutual.’

‘Don’t be daft; he’s with his girlfriend,’ insisted Cadi.

‘So why did you buy him a drink and persuade him to stay here for the evening?’

‘To annoy Daphne,’ said Cadi tartly. ‘You heard the way she spoke about the Greyhound.’

‘I did, and if that’s the way she feels, I’d rather she took her opinions elsewhere. The last thing I’d want to do is spend an evening with someone who doesn’t want to be here. I’m surprised you do. I know you say you only did it to annoy Daphne, but aren’t you in the least bit curious as to why he’s really here?’

‘All right, so I’m curious,’ admitted Cadi, ‘who wouldn’t be? He’s like a completely different feller to the one I left behind.’

‘Well, you be careful, cos you’re playing with fire. Daphne sees you as a threat, and who can blame her, when you look so glamorous.’

Cadi looked down at her dress. ‘Me? Glamorous? Daphne looks like one of those women in the posters. Or the movies.’

Maria looked at Cadi. ‘You’re wearing a flattering dress, which emphasises your body in all the right places. Not only that, but you’re your own woman. From where I’m standing, it’s obvious why Daphne’s acting the way she is.’

Cadi put the plates onto a tray along with the cutlery. ‘If we stand here nattering, she really will have summat to complain about.’

‘True.’

Cadi took the tray through and placed everything on the table. ‘Any condiments?’

‘Salt,’ said Daphne.

Cadi fought the urge to point out that the woman hadn’t even tasted the food. ‘How about you, Aled, can I get you anything else?’

He winked at her. ‘I’m sure it’s perfect as it is.’

As she turned from the table, Cadi saw Daphne roll her eyes. So Maria was right. She took the salt back to the table and placed it down beside Daphne.

Back at the bar, Jez turned his attention from Aled and Daphne to Cadi. ‘Fancy him coming to see you after all this time.’

Cadi stared at Daphne, who was looking at her food disdainfully as she pushed it around her plate. ‘You see how Daphne is?’

Jez nodded.

‘That’s what Aled used to be like, which is why I couldn’t stand him. It seems odd that he’s changed so much, yet he still finds someone like Daphne attractive.’

‘She’s a bit of a whinger all right,’ agreed Jez, ‘but I’m guessing that’s because she’s jealous.’

Cadi whipped round to look at him. ‘She is, isn’t she? Maria said as much.’

‘Not surprising really. It’s obvious Aled didn’t come here just to say hello,’ said Jez.

‘Of course not. He came over for a good nose, and to see where I ended up. He’s just curious.’ She wiped the bar with the cloth. ‘Not half as curious as my dad’s going to be, when I tell him I know the truth.’

‘Have you decided what you’re going to do about going home?’

She nodded. ‘I’m going to go back and give my father a piece of my mind – a large piece. That should dampen his fire when it comes to me and Aled, especially when I tell him how Aled turned up at the pub with his girlfriend in tow.’

Jez looked at Daphne. ‘His girlfriend? Are you sure? Only he didn’t introduce her as such.’

Cadi gave a short, knowing laugh. ‘If she isn’t, then trust me, she soon will be. She’s got her sights set on Aled and she’ll not let anyone stand in her way until she gets what she wants.’

‘Didn’t win tonight, though, did she?’ said Jez.

‘Softly, softly, catchee monkey,’ said Cadi wisely. ‘He may have won this battle, but she’ll win the war, because I can guarantee Aled won’t be coming back here after tonight.’

Jez felt himself relax. He knew Cadi wouldn’t do anything behind his back, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t break things off with him and start a fresh relationship with Aled. As far as Jez was concerned, the sooner the other man left, the better.

It was the morning after Aled’s stay, and Cadi was up early seeing to his breakfast. When she went into the bar Aled had taken a seat by the window.

‘Good morning! I trust you slept well?’

Aled stifled a yawn behind his hand. ‘I did indeed! So well, I didn’t want to get up.’

‘What time do you have to leave at?’

He glanced at the watch on his wrist. ‘I’ve got half an hour yet, so I’ve plenty of time.’

Placing the tray of porridge, toast and a pot of tea on the table, Cadi began unloading it. ‘It’s been lovely to see you, although I don’t think Daphne likes it here much.’

He wrinkled an eyebrow. ‘Yes, she was a tad vocal, wasn’t she? Which is most unusual for her, as she’s normally happy wherever she is.’

‘Really? Because she came across as liking the finer things in life. Are her parents wealthy?’

Aled coughed on a chuckle. ‘Good God no! They run a tenanted farm! As for being posh, I can understand why you’d think that, but you couldn’t be further from the truth.’

‘You do surprise me.’

‘I think Daphne was having a bad day. She’s always saying it’s not easy being the only woman amongst so many men.’

Cadi sat down opposite him. ‘I’ve been meaning to ask you about that. It’s obviously no coincidence that the two of you are in the same city, so what gives?’

‘She’s the same as Poppy – a driver in the MT – and it’s not just the two of us; the rest of the crew are staying in various lodgings throughout the city. It’s hard getting us all under the same roof, so we invariably end up in different places.’

‘So why did Daphne choose to come here?’

Aled gave her a shrewd smile. ‘She says she finds the others hard to talk to, so I suggested she come and meet me here.’

‘Ah.’ Cadi nodded. ‘I see! So maybe that’s why she wasn’t keen on sharing you.’

‘Possibly.’

Having had enough of discussing Daphne, Cadi changed the topic. ‘So what brings an entire crew to Liverpool for one night?’

‘We’re en route to pick up our new bomber,’ explained Aled as he dug his spoon into the porridge, ‘which is why we need Daphne to drive us up. Once she’s dropped us off at our destination, she’ll drive back, whilst we fly.’

Cadi found herself asking Aled something she never thought she would. ‘Will I see you again?’

He flashed her a dazzling smile. ‘Of course! I could come and see you or, if you’d prefer, you can come and see me.’

Standing up from her seat, she waited for him to finish his porridge before taking the bowl. ‘That’d be nice. I’ve never been to Lincolnshire before.’

‘It’s very different to Rhos – and Liverpool, come to that. Very olde-worldy, chocolate-box houses and quaint streets. So I’m not sure it’d be your cup of tea …’

‘It sounds beautiful,’ called Cadi over her shoulder as she took the bowl through to the kitchen.

‘You’ll have to come and see for yourself,’ Aled called back, adding, ‘I don’t mind showing you around.’

Cadi came back through. ‘Personal guide? I am honoured, but …’ Hearing someone knocking on the door, she stopped short. Sliding the bolts back, she opened the door and wasn’t altogether surprised to see Daphne on the other side.

‘You’re early,’ said Aled, as Cadi closed the door behind Daphne.

‘The early bird and all that,’ said Daphne as she stood halfway between the door and Aled’s table. ‘Are you ready?’

Aled frowned at his watch. ‘No, I am not. I’ve still got my tea and toast.’

Seeing that Aled wasn’t about to move any time soon, Daphne walked over and sat down opposite him.

Not wanting to start the day on an argument, Cadi decided to offer the hand of peace. ‘Aled tells me you’re in the MT? That’s the same as my friend Poppy.’

‘Have you never considered joining up?’ asked Daphne, in tones that suggested she hoped the answer to be no.

‘I have indeed,’ said Cadi, her lips twitching with amusement as she saw the rueful look that crossed Daphne’s face, ‘but I decided I’d rather stay here.’

Daphne cast Cadi a superior glance. ‘It’s not for everybody. That’s why they have the training process, so they can separate the wheat from the chaff.’

Cadi was livid. How dare the wretched woman throw her pleasantries back in her face by insinuating that Cadi was the chaff? ‘If I can run a B&B as well as serving behind a bar, and provide meals, I’m pretty certain I could taxi folk from A to B in a little car.’

Seemingly unaware of the trouble that was brewing, Aled cut in, ‘We couldn’t all fit in the car – Daph’s driving one of the wagons.’

Cadi wrinkled her nose in disgust. Daphne had started things, by putting down Cadi’s career choice, and she was about to return the favour. ‘How awful! You must have the devil’s own job getting rid of the smell of oil and grease. However do you manage it?’

Daphne’s eyes narrowed. ‘With soap and water, same way as you get rid of the smell of stale ale and fags.’

Aled, now aware that things were getting heated, drained his cup. ‘As you’re here early, we might as well make a move.’ Standing up, he approached Cadi. ‘Thanks for everything, it’s been great fun catching up. We’ll have to do it again sometime.’

Leaning up, Cadi kissed him on the cheek. ‘It’s been good seeing you too, Maybe I’ll take you up on the offer of a guided tour around Lincoln.’ She knew she was being wicked. Under normal circumstances she’d never have dreamed of kissing Aled on the cheek, and had only done so to infuriate Daphne. The same was true of her mentioning the trip to Lincoln, so she was pleased to see that her actions had Daphne positively spitting feathers.

Aled beamed. ‘I’ll hold you to that.’ He pecked her on the cheek before heading to the door. ‘I’ll give you a heads-up that it’s me next time.’

Cadi walked them out of the pub, and watched as Aled and Daphne climbed into the cab of the lorry. Seeing the other girl start the engine and pull away from the kerb, Cadi noticed with delight the thunderous look Daphne shot her in her side-view mirror. No one slated the Greyhound and got away with it.

Peering around the door of the pub, Jez waved to gain Cadi’s attention. ‘Are you ready?’

Instead of going over, she beckoned him to join her by the bar. ‘I’m waiting for a telephone call from Mam and Dad.’

‘Are they calling for any reason in particular?’

‘Yes, I told them I had some news to impart but wanted to do it over the ’phone. You see, I’ve thought it through and I think it’s best if I tell them what I know, prior to visiting – see what their reaction is …’ As if on cue, the telephone began to ring. Crossing her fingers, Cadi picked up the handset and spoke into the mouthpiece. ‘Greyhound Public House, Cadi speaking, how may I help you?’

‘Cadi!’ cried Jill, her voice filled with glee.

‘Mam! How are you?’

‘So-so,’ replied Jill. ‘Missing you of course – especially your father, who’s heard tell that you’ve seen Aled?’

‘Yes, he came to stay over on his way to pick up a new bomber,’ said Cadi. ‘It’s about Aled that I’m ringing.’

‘Oh?’

Cadi heard her mother relay her words to her father, and Dewi came on the telephone.

‘Mam says you’ve summat to tell us?’

‘Yes, I have! For a start, where do you get off ringing the licensing office and telling them Maria’s got two underage girls serving behind the bar? Just what did you think you’d accomplish? Because you failed, but in the process I ended up giving Aled a mouthful, because I thought he was to blame.’

There was a brief silence before her father spoke, rather coldly. ‘It’s not my fault that woman employs children to do her dirty work.’

‘Dad!’ cried Cadi. ‘Maria didn’t employ us to work behind the bar, we ran the B&B. And if you’d come to visit, like I asked you to, you could’ve seen that with your own eyes, but instead you choose to believe what you want to.’

There came a small ‘hmmph’ from the other end of the receiver.

‘Have you nothing to say?’

‘I hope you apologised to Aled for accusing him unfairly.’

Cadi was livid. ‘Never mind Aled, although yes, I did apologise, because I do when I’m in the wrong,’ adding bitterly, ‘shame it doesn’t run in the family.’

Ignoring her insinuation, Dewi continued. ‘Did he accept your apology?’

‘He was very gracious about the whole thing.’

She could hear her father smiling. ‘Sounds like you got on well.’

Realising her father was getting his hopes up, Cadi decided to tell a small white lie. ‘We did. I introduced him to Jez, and Aled introduced me to his girlfriend.’ There came nothing but silence. ‘Dad?’

‘Cadi?’

Cadi heaved a sigh. ‘Mam! Where’s Dad? Did he hear what I said?’

‘I think so, or that’s to say he didn’t look best pleased.’

‘He didn’t look best pleased! What about me? Maria too, come to that. Dad’s stirring could’ve got her closed down, Mam—’

Jill cut her short. ‘What are you on about, Cadi?’

Cadi repeated the conversation she had just had with her father.

‘So that’s why he’s stormed off, the silly old fool.’ She heaved an exasperated sigh. ‘I’ll have a word with him, love, although I can’t promise anything. He’s convinced you’ve done the wrong thing, and it doesn’t matter what me or your brothers say. As far as your father’s concerned, he knows best, and hearing that Aled’s got a girlfriend won’t have done anything to change his mind.’

‘He’s got to forget about me and Aled, because it’s never going to happen. We live in separate worlds, and I’m with Jez now.’ Seeing Jez smile, Cadi did too. ‘The sooner Dad gets that through his thick skull, the better.’

‘Now there’s no need to be rude, Cadi. Your father loves you. That’s why he wants the best – you’re his only daughter …’

Cadi rolled her eyes. ‘If he really loved me, he’d want me to be happy, and he clearly doesn’t.’

‘He does – but he goes about it the wrong way.’ Jill sighed wearily. ‘Why don’t you come home for a weekend? He might listen if you’re face-to-face.’

‘You’ve already said he won’t listen to you or the boys, so why to me?’

‘Will you at least think about it?’

Cadi nodded. ‘All right, but I can’t promise anything.’

‘That’s all I ask. Take care of yourself, love.’

‘You too. Give my love to the boys.’

‘Will do. Ta-ra, Cadi.

‘Bye, Mam.’

Replacing the handset, Cadi turned to Jez. ‘Did you get the gist?’

‘Just as you said it would be. But I think this might be the conversation you needed in order to break the ice.’ He held up a hand as Cadi went to interject. ‘I know your father stormed off, but that’s because he didn’t know what to say. You’d caught him red-handed and he couldn’t deny it; not only that, but his plans to get you and Aled together have been well and truly foiled and he can hardly blame you for that. Give him time and I’m sure he’ll come round. But it will take time, because he doesn’t sound like the type of man who wants to admit he’s wrong.’

‘I hope you’re right, Jez, because I hate fighting with him.’

‘Give it a couple of weeks, and if he’s not come to you by then, give him another call.’

‘Why can’t he be more like you?’ muttered Cadi.

Jez grinned. ‘I’m unique.’

‘Modest too,’ giggled Cadi.

He winked at Cadi. ‘Another winning attribute.’

She picked up her handbag from behind the bar. ‘Come on, you – we’d best get to the Grafton whilst you can still fit your head through the door.’

They boarded the tram that would take them to the dance hall and took a seat near the back. Jez placed an arm around Cadi’s shoulders, sending a thrill of delight through her. They may have been courting for some time now, but she was still in the heady days of being with her first boyfriend.

‘Have you heard from Poppy or Izzy?’ Jez asked.

‘Yes. Poppy’s made arrangements to come home for the first week of May.’

‘She has a week’s leave already?’

‘Yep, they were due a week’s leave after training, but Poppy said she’d prefer to take it when the weather had improved. Izzy isn’t coming back, though.’

‘Not surprising. I wouldn’t fancy bumping into her old man either, if I were her.’

‘It’s not that. She’s loving life in the WAAF – so much so she doesn’t want to leave.’

‘She’ll go places, with an attitude like that,’ said Jez approvingly.

‘Poppy reckons they’ve earmarked Izzy as sergeant material.’

Jez glanced out at the people waiting at the next stop. ‘I’d never have put Izzy down as the sort of woman to give people orders – take them, yes.’

The tram came to a halt and the pair alighted along with a lot of other passengers. Cadi threaded her arm through Jez’s as they stood in line. ‘I sometimes wonder how I would’ve found life in the WAAF, had I gone with them, because they both seem to enjoy it.’

‘I’m glad you didn’t,’ said Jez and, leaning forward, he kissed her tenderly. ‘I know they say absence makes the heart grow fonder, but I’d far rather have you here with me.’

Blushing to the roots of her hair, Cadi glanced round to see if anyone was watching as they broke apart. However, it seemed the kiss, which meant everything to Cadi, meant nothing to those standing nearby.

The queue was quick to go down and it wasn’t long before they were buying their drinks by the bar. Cadi looked out across the dance floor. ‘Do you think people are right in thinking that Hitler’s only interested in destroying London?’

Jez mulled it over as he sipped his drink. ‘I’m afraid not. I reckon Christmas was a taste of what’s to come – like a bit of a trial run to see how we’d react, before deciding what to do next.’ Standing up, he held out a hand. ‘C’mon, queen, let’s have us some fun.’

Taking his hand, Cadi joined him on the dance floor. ‘Whilst we still can, you mean?’

‘Not necessarily. Don’t forget the British Army is one of the best in the world. Our men are still out there, protecting the British Empire, and Churchill’s determined to win – not like that bloomin’ Chamberlain.’

Cadi relaxed into Jez’s arms. She’d been keeping a keen eye on the news and, from what she could see, things were getting worse, not better. The British had underestimated the Germans, something that had been proved with the Christmas blitz. ‘We will win, won’t we?’

Squeezing her tight, Jez’s lips brushed against her cheek. ‘Of course we will.’

Satisfied that Jez was right, as always, Cadi rested her cheek against his chest.

1 May 1941

Cadi craned her neck as the train that Poppy was travelling on pulled into the station. Seeing her pal waving from one of the carriages, Cadi gave a small squeal of excitement. It had only been a couple of months since they had last seen each other, but to Cadi it felt like years.

‘I want to know everything’ were the first words out of Poppy’s mouth. ‘I know we’ve spoken over the phone, but you’ve not told me any of the nitty-gritty.’

‘And neither would I, or at least certainly not over the phone. After all, a lady never tells,’ smiled Cadi.

‘Good job you’re not a lady then,’ Poppy laughed.

Cadi gave her friend a playful nudge. ‘Cheeky!’

Swinging her kitbag up into her arms, Poppy walked towards the exit with Cadi. ‘So come on then, don’t leave me in suspenders.’

Cadi, who had been dying to renew the topic with her best friend, was happy to bring her up to date. ‘We had our first kiss on the dance floor of the Grafton, as I told you. It wasn’t planned, although I dare say a kiss never is, and his lips were as soft as a whisper.’

‘And?’ said Poppy, mugging furiously for more information.

‘And what sort of girl do you take me for, Poppy Harding?’

‘I don’t mean that,’ tutted Poppy. ‘I meant, is that when he asked you to be his girlfriend?’

Cadi’s brow furrowed. ‘A very interesting question, because no, he didn’t. In fact he never has; we’ve both sort of assumed that’s the case. He introduced me to his nan as his girlfriend, and I introduced him to Aled as my boyfriend.’

‘Aled!’ mused Poppy. ‘What was his face like when you introduced him to Jez?’

‘I don’t think he cared much, but Maria thinks Aled is holding a torch for me. And, judging by your question, I’m guessing you do too?’

‘Last time the two of you met it was hardly a heartfelt goodbye. Yet out of all the places he could’ve stayed in Liverpool, he chose the Greyhound? That’s no coincidence.’

‘You’re right,’ agreed Cadi, ‘he even said so himself.’

Poppy looked at her in surprise. ‘He did?’

‘Yes, he said he was curious to see how things had turned out for me because it had been such a long time.’

Poppy cast her friend a knowing glance. ‘Let me put it this way. If Aled was staying in another B&B, would you have gone to see him?’

Cadi looked aghast. ‘No, I would not. And not only because I believed him to be a snake in the grass; even before that, I’d not have been interested in any way, shape or …’ She fell silent as her brain caught up with her words. ‘Oh.’

‘Precisely,’ said Poppy, with a smug smile.

Cadi hailed a tram and the two girls boarded. With no available seats, they held on to the ceiling straps. ‘I think I might’ve made a mistake,’ confessed Cadi quietly.

‘Not to worry – no harm done.’

‘Not that,’ said Cadi. ‘I mean the bit where I gave Aled a peck on the cheek and told him I might take him up on his offer of a guided tour round Lincoln.’

Poppy’s eyes widened. ‘You did what?’

Placing a finger to her lips, Cadi glanced around her. ‘Perhaps this isn’t the best place to air my dirty laundry.’ She grimaced as she heard an elderly lady tut her disappointment.

The girls stood in silence as they waited for their stop. Descending from the tram, they resumed their conversation only once they were clear of prying ears.

‘What on earth possessed you?’ cried Poppy.

Sighing miserably, Cadi told her all about Daphne and her attitude towards Cadi and the Greyhound, as they began the walk home.

‘So you thought you’d give her one in the eye whilst leading Aled on?’

‘Yes,’ said Cadi, quickly adding, ‘I mean no!’

‘Leading men on is playing with fire, Cadi Williams, and if word ever got back to Jez …’

Cadi held a hand to her tummy. ‘Oh, don’t. I know I’ve been a fool, but it didn’t mean anything.’

Poppy furrowed her brow. ‘Why did you let this Daphne get under your skin?’

‘Because she was making out like the Greyhound was a dive, and that I was no better, even implying that I was chaff,’ confessed Cadi. ‘I wanted to hurt her the way she had hurt me.’

‘So you did it by making a beeline for her feller?’ said Poppy.

‘He’s not Daphne’s feller, but it’s obvious she wants him to be – that’s why she was being so vile towards me.’

‘And you thought you’d make it better by pretending to be interested in Aled?’

Cadi sighed miserably. ‘I wasn’t thinking clearly.’

Poppy was shaking her head. ‘There’s more to this than meets the eye. It doesn’t make sense that you would react in such a manner over some silly comments made by a woman you don’t even know.’

‘I swear that’s all it was. Why else would I do it?’

‘Let’s think this through. If that had been anyone else – and I’m referring to Aled here – what would your response have been, if Daphne would’ve come in with exactly the same attitude? What would you have done or said?’

Cadi mulled this over. ‘I’d still have been annoyed, but I wouldn’t have tried to persuade the man to stay for a meal. In fact, I’d rather he left, so that we didn’t have to listen to her nasty comments. We’ve always known you can’t please all of the people all of the time, and we’ve had our fair share of disgruntled customers who’ve been disappointed, for one reason or another. Which is why Maria’s told us we’re not to react, but simply smile and nod.’

‘The customer’s always right,’ agreed Poppy.

‘I know,’ said Cadi wretchedly, ‘so why did I react so badly?’

‘I think the answer’s obvious,’ concluded Poppy. ‘You didn’t want Aled thinking badly about you or your profession.’

‘Of course I didn’t, I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished.’ Cadi was blushing to the tips of her ears. ‘But if I’m being honest, I was jealous of Daphne. She looked ever so smart in her uniform, and she made me feel quite inferior by comparison.’

Poppy eyed her sharply. ‘Did you only feel that way because of the things she said or …?’

Cadi shot her a sidelong glance. ‘She made me feel inferior to her as soon as she walked in.’

‘Uh-oh!’

‘What?’

‘When you phoned to tell me how much Aled had changed, I thought I could hear something in your voice, but this has confirmed it.’ She smiled sympathetically. ‘You liked him, didn’t you?’

Cadi nodded mutely. ‘As a person, yes, which is annoying because I wasn’t expecting to.’

‘Question is: how much?’

‘He’s a completely different feller to the one I thought he was – humble and unassuming.’ Cadi shrugged. ‘Aled was really nice, and if I weren’t with Jez, I’d say he seemed like perfect boyfriend material?’

‘Only you are,’ Poppy reminded her friend.

‘I know,’ said Cadi irritably, ‘so you needn’t look at me like that, Poppy Harding, because I love Jez and I’m not interested in anyone else, no matter how much they may have changed. Never mind the fact that it’s highly unlikely I’ll ever see him again,’ she added as an afterthought.

Ever the one to play devil’s advocate, Poppy continued, ‘Supposing Aled lived in Liverpool and you could see him on a daily basis, as you do Jez, how would you feel then?’

‘Only he doesn’t, does he, so I guess we’ll never know,’ Cadi said primly, adding, ‘Why are you trying to cause me to doubt myself?’

‘Because you’re my best pal and I don’t want to see you make a mistake. Not only that, but I think the world of Jez, and if you’ve got feelings for another man, then he deserves to know.’

‘But you’re suggesting scenarios that are never going to happen,’ said Cadi briskly. ‘And even if they did, none of us knows what the future holds. For all I know, Jez could fall in love with another woman.’

Poppy nodded. ‘You’re right. Ignore me. I’m making a mountain out of a molehill and poking my nose in where it’s not wanted.’

‘No, you’re not,’ said Cadi, ‘you’re trying to be a good pal to both of us. But honestly, Poppy, Jez is the man for me. And whilst I think you’re right in suggesting that I wanted to impress Aled, maybe it’s because I’m still on the defensive.’

Poppy nodded. ‘You’ve spent years convinced that Aled was looking down his nose at you – it’s probably become a bit of a habit.’ She opened the door to the pub, where she was warmly greeted by Maria, who introduced her to Bill.

As Cadi stood in the background, watching them, she ran Poppy’s theories through her mind. Was Poppy right? Had Cadi’s feelings towards her old adversary changed? She had felt both impressed and humbled when she learned that Aled was a rear-gunner. She recalled how her tummy had sunk as she imagined him in the back of a bomber, with the Luftwaffe trying to gun him down. Seeing the look in his eyes, she instantly dismissed the image from her mind. She looked at Poppy, who was showing off her uniform. Of all the scenarios Poppy had put forward, not one had involved Aled’s dangerous role. They all knew that tail-end Charlie was the most dangerous of the jobs for a member of the air crew. Had it not crossed Poppy’s mind that Cadi felt sorry for him? It had Cadi’s. Even before that night in the pub, had someone told her of Aled’s new role, she would have felt the same. No one wanted to think of someone they had grown up with practically sacrificing themselves by sitting in such a vulnerable position.

Later that day, as the girls helped Maria to open up the pub, Cadi put her thoughts to Poppy, who agreed.

‘We had what they call “the talk” within days of our initial training. In our case, it was Sergeant Mary Daniels who told us why war romances are frowned upon in the forces.’

‘Because they don’t want a population explosion?’ ventured Cadi, much to Poppy’s hilarity.

‘No! Although you’re quite right, because she did say she’d had to explain to more than one angry parent why their daughter was being discharged.’ She gave Cadi a knowing look.

‘Blimey. I was only joking.’

‘I dare say you were, but joking aside, they say that most war romances only come about because people are in a hurry to get together, in case the worst happens.’

Cadi nodded. ‘My dad’s sister and her husband got together during the last lot, and they can’t stand the sight of each other any more. But it’s different for me and Jez, our relationship developed slowly. Goodness only knows, I made sure I was absolutely certain that I was doing the right thing before giving in to my emotions.’

‘I know you did, and I feel silly for making such a fuss. I didn’t mean to put the cat amongst the pigeons, but at the same time—’

She stopped short as Jez entered the bar. ‘Poppy! Sorry I couldn’t be there to greet you, but we’re super-busy down the docks.’

With Jez present, all talk of Aled was on hold. Poppy regaled him with stories of her adventures, and Jez listened avidly. Being a popular member of the Greyhound staff, Poppy was welcomed back with open arms by the locals, who wished to hear all about her new life in the WAAF.

‘I think I’m going hoarse,’ she said as she placed another tray of empty glasses on the bar.

‘You’re certainly quite the heroine, as far as these fellers are concerned,’ observed Jez.

Poppy leaned back against the bar. ‘They’re awfully sweet. You’d swear I was fighting the war single-handed, the way some of them speak—’ She stopped short as the dreaded air-raid siren wailed its warning.

Maria lifted the hatch to the cellar and Cadi went outside to see if there were any stragglers in need of shelter, whilst Jez nipped out to fetch his nan.

Descending the steps into the cellar, Jez introduced Poppy to his nan, who grinned toothily as she settled down beside Poppy.

‘Hello, Poppy. I’m Carrie, but they all call me “Auntie Carrie”.’

Poppy smiled. This was the first time she had met Jez’s nan, and she liked her already. ‘Hello, Auntie Carrie. Would you like a cushion?’

Laughing, Carrie patted her ample bottom. ‘I’ve plenty of padding of me own, thanks, chuck. Besides, I’m hopin’ we won’t be down here too long.’ She shot Jez a chastising look. ‘If it were up to me, I’d still be in me bed, but our Jez reckons the war’s heating up.’ She viewed Poppy through narrowing eyes. ‘You’re in the WAAF, so what do you think, is he right?’

With all eyes on Poppy, she began to wish that Auntie Carrie had chosen a different seat. ‘Hitler doesn’t give us advance warning, and it would be wrong for me to repeat rumours that have no—’ She fell silent as Maria interrupted.

‘Shhh!’ The cellar fell silent as the occupants strained their ears. Nodding, Maria got to her feet. ‘Someone’s banging on the door.’

Bill put out a restraining hand. ‘Sit back down – I’ll go.’

‘No, you won’t,’ said Maria firmly. ‘You’ve only got one good eye, and everything’s pitch-black up there.’

‘Then it won’t make any difference, will it?’ said Bill, reasonably, but Maria wasn’t listening.

‘You can go next time.’ Without another word she left, only to return, grim-faced, with the man who’d been knocking. She jerked her head towards the group, who were eyeing them with trepidation. ‘Tell them.’

The man’s voice quavered as he spoke. ‘It’s no false alarm – there’s hundreds of ’em coming our way. The spotters said so; they reckon the sky went black cos they blocked out the stars.’ He gulped as the last words left his lips.

Cadi, Poppy and Jez exchanged glances. ‘That can’t be true,’ said Cadi. ‘Surely we’d have heard something, if there was that many.’

Maria was leaning her head against Bill’s chest, a solitary tear trickling down her cheek. ‘It’s true. I didn’t see them for myself – I didn’t have to, you can hear them clear as a bell. They sound like a swarm of bees, only louder.’ Wiping the tear away, she glanced around the sea of worried faces. ‘This is going to be nothing like it was at Christmas.’

‘You mean you think it’s going to be worse?’ ventured Cadi. Crossing her fingers, she hoped that Maria was going to say no, and her heart sank as Maria nodded.

‘Much worse.’

The people in the cellar fell silent once again, but this time the silence was broken by the distant thrum of the Luftwaffe’s engines, accompanied by the sound of bombs exploding as they rained down.

Clutching Jez’s hand in hers, Cadi prayed for the Luftwaffe to go away.

‘P’raps you was right about me not stopping in bed,’ conceded Auntie Carrie as dust fell from the ceiling. Glancing over to Jez’s nan, Caddie saw the older woman slip her hand into Jez’s. ‘We are safe down here, aren’t we?’

Holding Maria in his arms, Bill nodded. ‘Safe as houses, queen. This cellar is deeper than any shelter and a darned sight safer than your bed, so don’t you worry.’

The bombing went on far longer than they’d have thought possible, and when the all-clear finally sounded and they emerged from the cellar, the sight that met their eyes was that of complete devastation. Whole streets lay in crumpled ruins, and those that still stood burned white from the phosphorus fires. Cadi heaved as the sharp smell of burning roofs and bodies invaded her nostrils.

She looked up to Jez, who was staring around them in horror. ‘This is what they must mean by “hell on earth”. You said the bombers were going to come back, and you were right,’ she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Silent tears tracked a path down her cheek, now dirty with the soot that filled the air.

He nodded reluctantly. ‘And for once I wish I’d been wrong.’ He turned to Maria. ‘Can Nan stay here whilst we go and help?’

Maria shot him a reproving glance. ‘Of course she can. Dear God, Jez, you don’t need to ask.’ She turned to the old lady. ‘Come on, Auntie Carrie, let’s get you summat to drink and leave these young ones to help in any way they can.’ Putting her arm around the old lady’s shoulders, she addressed Cadi. ‘As soon as I’ve got Auntie Carrie settled, I’ll start making sarnies for the workers and survivors. Some folk will’ve lost everything, and a bit of human kindness will mean a lot.’

Cadi, Poppy and Jez headed towards the buildings that were still ablaze after being hit with incendiary bombs. ‘I hope Aled and his crew give them Germans a taste of their own medicine, because we didn’t do anything to deserve this,’ snapped Cadi angrily.

Poppy’s jaw twitched. ‘Don’t you worry, Cadi. Our boys won’t have let this go by without some form of retaliation.’

Jez placed one arm around Cadi and the other around Poppy. ‘Hitler’s going to rue the day he messed with us, just you wait and see.’

As they neared the worst-hit areas, Cadi stared around her. ‘I don’t even know where we are – everything’s gone,’ she said quietly.

A man passing by looked at her solemnly. ‘You’re in hell, queen – or at least that’s what it feels like.’

Cadi looked towards an old lady who appeared to be searching for something. Walking over, she laid a hand on the woman’s elbow. ‘Can I help you?’

The woman turned a tear-stained face to Cadi. ‘I’m trying to find my home …’

A warden hastened towards them. ‘There you are, Mrs Wilkinson. You come with me – I’ve found you somewhere to stay.’ He smiled kindly at Cadi over his shoulder. ‘Thanks for looking after her.’

‘I’m not sure I did much,’ said Cadi, ‘but we’ve come here to help. Can you point us in the right direction?’

He nodded to a van parked up by the kerb. ‘Go to the WVS van, they’ll tell you what needs doing.’

The three of them did as he had instructed, and the women in the van soon put them to work, clearing rubble from houses where they believed people to be trapped. They hadn’t been at it for long before Cadi came across her first survivor. ‘Over here!’ she yelled to the warden who was in charge.

He climbed gingerly across the rubble to join Cadi. ‘Have you found someone?’

She pointed to a woman who was sitting on a chair beneath the rubble. ‘Down there. You wouldn’t credit it, would you? The whole place comes down, but she’s sitting there like nowt’s happened.’

The warden called out to the young woman. ‘Hello? Are you all right, luv?’ With no response coming from the woman, he continued, ‘Only I don’t think this beam’s going to protect you for much longer, so we need to get you out of here as quickly as we can.’

Seeing the beam he was referring to, Cadi turned to the others. ‘There’s one beam holding this whole thing up – talk about lucky.’ A faint smile etching her cheeks, she turned back to the warden, but her face fell as she followed his gaze.

The woman was blinking up at them, her face stained with tears, dirt and blood. A small bundle lay in her arms. ‘A baby!’ cried Cadi and, kneeling down, she leaned as far over as she dared, holding her arms out, she looked into the woman’s eyes. ‘Pass your baby to me. Then we can concentrate on getting you out, but you need to hurry, cos this thing could come down at any moment.’

The woman shook her head, holding the baby tightly to her.

Cadi looked over her shoulder to where the warden stood looking down into the hole. ‘Why’s she being so silly? Do you think she’s in shock?’

The warden wiped his nose on the back of his hand. ‘Take a closer look.’

Cadi looked at the woman, then at the baby: clean-faced, eyes wide open, and silent as the … Hiding her tears behind her hands, Cadi spoke thickly through them. ‘The baby … is it?’

The warden placed a hand on her shoulder. ‘I’m afraid so, luv.’

Wiping the tears from her eyes, Cadi leaned back over, her bottom lip trembling as she tried to get her words out in a calming fashion. ‘Pass me your baby – there’s nothing else can be done, but if you stay down there …’

The woman, tears still streaming down her face, shook her head. ‘I don’t want to let her go.’

Cadi nodded abruptly, whilst fighting back the tears. ‘I know you don’t, but I promise I’ll hand her straight back as soon as you’re up here, is that all right with you?’

In answer, the woman got to her feet and passed the baby up. With the bundle in her arms, Cadi caught a glimpse of the small face: not a speck of dust or dirt, and large blue eyes that stared dully back. Cadi hastily looked away.

With the young mother now out of the hole, Cadi handed the baby over. ‘She’s beautiful.’

Nodding, the woman thanked Cadi, before being led away by a kind-looking middle-aged woman from the WVS van.

Choking on her tears, Cadi looked to the warden for answers. ‘There wasn’t a mark on that baby. How can she go through all that, only to die from the blast?’

He shrugged. ‘It happens.’

The tears streamed down Cadi’s cheeks. ‘It shouldn’t, though. None of this should be happening.’ She turned to Poppy and Jez, who had come to join her from further down the rubble.

‘Go home, Cadi,’ urged Jez, as he placed his arm around her shoulders. ‘You’ve done your bit.’

She shook her head. ‘I can’t, Jez, not whilst there’s others still trapped.’

It was many hours later when the three of them returned to the pub.

‘How’s it going?’ asked Maria anxiously.

Flopping into the nearest chair, Cadi held her face in her hands. ‘We’ve barely scratched the surface, and I’ve seen things I wish I hadn’t, although I dare say they’ll visit me in my nightmares.’ She cast Poppy a rueful glance. ‘What a way to spend your leave.’

‘They’ve certainly given us a good hammering,’ admitted Poppy. Standing at the sink, she washed her hands free of soot, muck and other people’s blood. ‘We saved lives out there tonight. If you hadn’t have found that woman, it might have been another life lost, and that’s why we’ll go back tomorrow.’

‘What woman?’ asked Maria, keen to hear the news.

Poppy explained, and Maria took Cadi in a tight embrace. ‘You poor, poor thing – no one should have to go through summat like that.’

Cadi gave her a grim smile. ‘I can walk away, but that poor woman can’t. She’ll have to deal with her loss for the rest of her life. I get off lightly in comparison.’

Jez, who had been resting his head on his arm, suddenly started. ‘Where’s me nan?’

Maria glanced towards the bar. ‘In the pub, serving customers and having a good old chinwag.’

Cadi looked at Maria in amazement. ‘You’re open?’

Maria nodded. ‘It’s times like these folk need us the most – not only for a bit of normality, but as an escape from the reality. I explained that we wouldn’t be serving evening meals and, even though they understood, you could tell they were a bit disappointed.’

Pushing herself up from her seat, Cadi headed for the pantry. ‘Anything I can do to make folk feel better, I will. And if that’s a bit of stew, then that’s fine by me.’

Maria wagged an admonitory finger. ‘You’re like a dead dog, Cadi. Get yourself up them stairs and into a bath. You too, Poppy. And you needn’t think you’re getting away without a bath, neither, Jez – you can take your turn after the girls.’

Cadi ignored Maria’s advice. ‘Poppy can go first, and Jez can help me do the stew. We can sleep tonight.’

Despite her words, sleep would not come that night. The Luftwaffe, determined to continue their onslaught, came back in their hundreds and, just as they had the previous night, they all huddled in the safety of the cellar, waiting for the all-clear.

‘They reckon the bombers buggered off early last night because of the unexpected change in the weather,’ said Bill, as he tried to reassure the people who were watching small clouds of dust falling from the ceiling with frightened eyes. ‘Let’s hope the same happens tonight.’

As they listened to the dull thuds of bombs falling in the distance, Auntie Carrie got to her feet. ‘I don’t know about you lot, but I ain’t goin’ to let no Nazi dampen my spirits. How’s about a singsong?’

The suggestion was a welcome one, and Auntie Carrie, as well as some of the older customers, burst into songs the likes of which Jez, Cadi and Poppy had never heard before. ‘By all that’s holy, your nan knows some crude songs,’ chuckled Cadi as she and Poppy fell into fits of giggles.

Jez grinned. ‘She’s one in a million, that’s for sure.’

Like the previous night, when the all-clear sounded, Cadi, Poppy and Jez headed for the city whilst Maria and Bill made refreshments, and Carrie dozed in one of the armchairs.

It was when Cadi and Jez popped back for more refreshments that Maria, who was talking on the telephone, called Cadi through. ‘It’s Aled.’

Wiping her dirty hands on a clean cloth, Cadi took the handset.

‘Aled?’

‘Cadi! How are you? I’ve been that worried.’

She smiled. ‘That’s really sweet of you, but there’s no need to worry over me – we’re fine. You?’

‘Better for hearing you’re all right. I don’t suppose you’ve considered moving back to Rhos for a bit?’

‘No, and nor would I,’ said Cadi. ‘I bet it hasn’t made you want to return?’

‘Golly, no. If anything, it’s made us more determined than ever to stop the Luftwaffe in their tracks and we’ve a few tricks up our sleeves—’

The operator cut in, reminding them that they were being listened to. ‘Careless talk costs lives!’

Cadi, who had practically jumped out of her skin on hearing the unexpected voice, giggled an apology. ‘That’s told us.’

‘She’s right, though. You can’t talk on the phone the same as you can in person, which is why I thought I’d come over and see you on my next forty-eight-hour leave, if it’s all right with you, of course?’

Cadi didn’t know what to say. It would be rude to rebuff Aled’s suggestion, especially after he’d rung to enquire about her welfare. On the other hand, how would Jez feel? She came to a hasty decision. If Jez truly loved her, he would trust her. ‘That would be lovely – just let me know when.’

‘Right you are. I shall be in touch,’ came the gleeful response. ‘And, Cadi?’

‘Yes?’

‘Look after yourself.’

She smiled. ‘You too.’

She placed the handset back and trotted through to the kitchen. ‘Sorry about that. Shall we go?’

Jez nodded. ‘What did Aled want?’

Cadi took one of the baskets and the pair headed outside. ‘He’d heard about the bombings – same as the rest of the world, I should imagine – and wanted to know if I was all right.’

‘You were quite a while on the phone. Is that all he said?’

Cadi could feel her cheeks growing warmer. ‘We got a telling-off from the operator for chatting about the war, and Aled said it would be easier to talk face-to-face, which is why he’s coming over on his next forty-eight.’

‘To stay at the Greyhound?’ asked Jez.

‘I expect so, he didn’t really say.’ She glanced at Jez, who was looking morose. ‘Why?’

‘Just think it’s a bit odd that he wants to come back here, when he could use his leave to see his mam and dad.’

Cadi knew he was right, but she didn’t want to admit it, so she thought of a feasible excuse. ‘Not really. His father was no keener on him joining the RAF than mine was with me coming to Liverpool. Aled probably doesn’t fancy going back for an earbashing.’

‘S’pose.’

Cadi stopped in her tracks. ‘Why the long face?’

‘How would you feel if a female friend of mine came to stay with me for the weekend?’ he asked sullenly.

Cadi’s jaw clenched. ‘I wouldn’t give two hoots, because I trust you.’ She began walking at a faster pace.

‘I trust you too,’ said Jez, jogging to keep up. ‘It’s Aled I’m not sure about. And who can blame me? Good-looking feller, impressive job, a hero by all accounts …’

Cadi stopped so sharply that Jez cannoned into the back of her. ‘So you don’t trust me!’

‘I do—’ Jez began, but Cadi, already annoyed that she had agreed to Aled coming over, was ready for an argument.

‘If you really trusted me, you’d not be bothered what Aled looked like or what he did for a living, because you’d know it wouldn’t matter to me.’ She began walking again, the sandwiches bouncing precariously in the basket. ‘Honestly, Jez, without trust, do we even have a relationship?’

Hurrying behind, Jez caught up with her. ‘I do trust you, really I do, but when I look at Aled I can’t help feeling like you’ve drawn the short straw.’

She spun round to face him. ‘Why on earth would you think that?’

‘When your father said I was a glorified docker, he hit the nail on the head, because that’s exactly what I am. I don’t wear a smart uniform or perform death-defying feats before breakfast – or at any other time of day for that matter.’

‘Don’t listen to my father. I certainly don’t,’ said Cadi. ‘It doesn’t matter what you do, or how you dress, or any of that stuff – it’s what’s in here that counts.’ She laid the palm of her hand across his left breast. ‘And Aled’ll never have that, because he’s not you!’

Putting his basket to the floor, Jez placed his arms around Cadi and kissed her tenderly. ‘Sorry, queen, I guess the last couple of nights have got to me.’

She smiled ruefully at him. ‘So you’re not going to throw a tantrum if Aled comes over?’

He performed the three-fingered salute used by the Boy Scouts. ‘Scouts’ honour.’

Picking up her basket, Cadi tucked her arm into his. ‘Good. Now let’s get these butties to the workers before they start to curl.’

As they walked, Cadi cursed herself inwardly for making Jez feel badly about Aled. She had done it out of guilt, because she knew he had every right to feel that way. And if he ever found out about their last goodbye – she drew a deep breath – then he really would have something to complain about.

It was Poppy’s final day and they were all exhausted. Having spent most of the nights sheltering from the bombs and the days clearing the city, they’d hardly had any sleep. The bombing had left the city in ruins, and they had no idea whether the Luftwaffe was intending to strike again that night.

With Lime Street having suffered bomb damage, Poppy was catching a train from Central Station, and it was here that the girls said their goodbyes. Fighting hard to hold back the tears, Poppy leaned back from their embrace and, taking Cadi’s hands in hers, she squeezed them tightly. ‘Please look after yourself, and try to get your head down for a few hours. You’ll likely as not have an accident yourself if you don’t get some proper kip soon.

Cadi smiled. ‘Don’t you worry about me, I’ll be fine. Just you take care of yourself, and do give our love to Izzy.’

‘Will do, and if Aled comes to visit, give him by best, won’t you?’

Nodding, Cadi laughed. ‘There once was a time you wouldn’t give that boy the time of day, and yet here you are, wishing him well.’

Poppy gave a grim smile. ‘I’ve greater sympathy and respect for him now that I’ve experienced the wrath of a bomber plane for myself. It can’t be easy doing what they do, knowing that they’re inflicting all kinds of misery on the German people.’

‘And so they ruddy well should,’ said Jez briskly. ‘We didn’t start this.’

‘I know, but it’s still not nice,’ said Poppy calmly.

Bill took Poppy in a warm embrace. ‘You’re a grand lass, Poppy, with a heart of gold – don’t ever lose that.’

She smiled round at them. ‘Ta-ra, all, and say goodbye to Auntie Carrie for me, won’t you, Jez?’

‘Will do.’ He grinned. ‘Thanks for teaching her how to make pastry.’

Poppy laughed. ‘My pleasure.’

She glanced at the huge clock that hung high above the platform. ‘I’d best skedaddle, before the train leaves without me.’

They each gave her a final hug before seeing her aboard the train. Sliding the little carriage window across, Poppy pushed her hand out to wave as the train slowly made its way from the station.

With Poppy gone, they boarded the tram for home. Cadi yawned into the palm of her hand. ‘I should think I could sleep for a month.’

‘I don’t know how much more we, or the city, can take,’ said Maria, ‘if they don’t stop soon …’

Half asleep, Cadi smiled as Jez kissed her cheek. Yawning, she rested her head against his shoulder. ‘Poppy reckons the RAF have some of the best pilots in the world, so if anyone can stop the Luftwaffe, it’s them.’

Jez kissed the top of her head. ‘That’s why I’ve been thinking about joining up.’

Cadi shot up, wide-eyed. ‘Jez, no.’

‘You said it yourself, Cadi. We need our boys in blue to stop them, and I want to be a part of that.’

‘You’re not doing this because of the conversation we had a few days ago, are you, because if you are—’

Jez shook his head. ‘No! I’m doing this because I want to do my bit, same as Bill did.’

‘And look what happened to him,’ snapped Maria. ‘Do you really want the same to happen to you?’

‘Not everyone gets injured,’ said Jez stiffly. ‘If everyone thought that, where would we be?’

‘Under Nazi rule, that’s where,’ said a man who was standing nearby.

‘Precisely,’ said Bill. ‘That’s why I joined, and it’s why I want to go back, even if it is only a desk job.’

Cadi leaned against Jez’s chest. She couldn’t help thinking that Jez had been quite happy doing his job until Aled had come onto the scene. But she could hardly argue with him – it was his life after all.

Jez envisaged the shops such as Lewis’s and Blacklers, which now stood as empty shells, with no windows or doors, and no sign of the finery that once stood inside. With half the walls missing, it was difficult to tell where one shop ended and another had begun. He then imagined himself in RAF uniform, shooting down those who dared to attack his country. The image looked good, especially with a pilot’s brevet on his lapel.