Chapter Fifteen

 

Meanwhile, back in Ostend, there was discord in the band. Cedric had never been a popular member, and his playing was getting progressively worse. He liked his drink, which was obvious by his size, with beer being his tipple of choice. The Belgian variety was a particular favourite of his, so this trip was a wonderful opportunity to indulge. Unfortunately, it affected his playing ability. More beer, the worse his playing became. He thought that he was immune to criticism, because it was he who had introduced Thomas to Busy Mick, and it was he who had thought of the band idea in the first place. And it was he who had organised everything in such a short time, so, hey, he was the man, he was the one who could get away with anything he wanted. But he hadn’t reckoned on being under surveillance from Barbara, Busy Mick’s own little mole. It was Barbara who was reporting back to Busy Mick at the end of the trip, and if it was an adverse report, then if he was becoming a liability, then something would have to be done about him. That night’s concert had not gone particularly well. They had played their full medley of tunes, but some had been played a lot worse than others. It wasn’t just Cedric, it was two of the newer male members who hadn’t joined in before, and their lack of practice was evident. Yes, they could play, but Roger was far better, and he hadn’t really played for quite some time. Sue had been given the role of soloist for one particular number, so fortunately she had exonerated the decision by playing beautifully. This had been the high spot of the whole evening, so she was feeling particularly proud of herself. They went for their walk after the exercise of their love making, revelling in the warm sea breezes, holding hands, strolling on the flat sandy beach. Sue was walking in a strange way, as if she had been horse riding and was a bit sore down below, but Roger didn’t like to comment, as he thought it might be a ‘woman’s thing’ that he didn’t understand. The night life was amazing with so many hotels and cafes still open, such a choice, so they came off the sand, wiped their feet, and sat down outside a pleasant looking cafe – they were all pleasant looking. Soon a waitress was by their side.

‘What can I get you please?’

‘Beer for me and ..’he hesitated, looking at Sue

‘glass of dry white wine please.’

‘Coming up,’ said the waitress.

They started chatting as they waited for their refreshments. ‘So, has it been as bad as this before?’ asked Roger.

‘It’s been bad, but not as bad as this. We’ve always played some notes that weren’t quite in the right order, but the band has struggled on, as we’ve always enjoyed playing. However, this time, people just don’t like Cedric, and don’t feel like covering for him. Also, they don’t like Mr. Thomas very much either, resenting the way he took over the band.’

‘So, how do you see it resolving?’ asked Roger.

‘That’s quite difficult.’ She stopped as the drinks were served. ‘Thanks.’ She said to the waitress. ‘It depends on the reaction of the audiences,’ she continued, when the waitress had gone. ‘There is a fee involved, as you say, and we are supposed to be one of the better bands, especially as we are travelling both in and out of the UK. We quite often share the gig with other bands, usually non UK, and they are far better than us on every occasion. Without exception.’

‘Do you think that there’s something else going on?’

‘What do you mean?’

‘There’s a lot that doesn’t add up. I’ve already said to you about the way that the band was taken over in such a suspicious way. Also, the way that Thomas and Cedric couldn’t play their way out of a paper bag. And the way that there’s not a great deal of continuity about the band. Look at those three new players, for example. Barbara’s good, but nothing special, but as for the two men, well, I’m not that good, but I’m far better than them, so that’s not saying much. Think about the way that the band’s taking on all these new gigs, Milan next, somewhere in the Gulf next, it’s all just so, strange. It doesn’t add up.’

‘Don’t worry about it, darling, I’m sure it’ll all come out okay in the end. At least it meant that we can have a lovely little break together, and I’ve got some more plans for you.’

‘Really?’ Roger asked, sipping his beer.

‘No more at present, let’s sit and appreciate everything.’

As they were sitting enjoying themselves, Roger could swear that Mrs Walker, his guest who had stayed just after Easter and enjoyed, really enjoyed, sex with, walked past, but the light was dark, and he couldn’t really be sure. She hadn’t looked in his direction, so he said nothing to Sue. No point, really.