Sadly, their own demise as family members was now only weeks away, and those other young sisters next door on the other side were looking a bit restless too............
Within the next few weeks, Becky was noticeable by her absence. Our house no linger shook to her Madonna singles and the whole family at Dub-house 1 seemed to become subdued. As for Dub-house 2 on the other side of us, the place could have been empty for all we knew. It was as if each family was holding its breath waiting for something to happen. I knew that Craig was still around, the smell of cannabis would waft into our house from his bedroom window, but I saw virtually nothing of anyone for a very long time.
Another summer came and went, and then it was the time for the Street Party. I think it was to celebrate the birth of Prince Harry. For some unfathomable reason, whenever there is a Royal birth or wedding in the UK, the residents put up trestle tables and chairs in the middle of the road then settle down to gorge themselves silly on junk food and copious quantities of alcoholic punch and beer. It’s a bugger if you are trying to drive anywhere.
As we were carrying out the food, who should appear but Craig, who was also accompanied by the youngest sister of the 3. He had a huge grin on his face. “Guess what?” he said, “I’m getting disfellowshipped. Can I join the celebrating?”
Well Craig did indeed celebrate extremely well, but I was curious that the younger sister was allowed to be present for a birthday celebration. They are both featured in this pic, Craig is wearing the shades:
Craig later told me that his parents were devastated by the departure of first Becky and later him, so they were now easing up on their 2 remaining offspring in the hope that they would remain in the fold.
Their “easing up” soon became evident to me when John, Craigs Dad, approached me and started a conversation about his golf swing. I just responded pleasantly as though we had known each other for years. Actually, we had been living next door to each other for close on 3 years now, and here we were, behaving at last like adults. From that point on, there was no further tension between us. Amazing how the loss of a loved one can bring you back to reality.
Meanwhile, on the other side, a stirring was afoot. A young female voice could be frequently heard through the partition wall, plaintively objecting that she was never allowed to do ANYTHING………….
End of part 5.
In part 6 I decide to move on, and I entrust John with a secret. The final chapter.
Englishman.
Nostalgia isn't what it used to be....