Gina's Story - an unforgettable 24 hours in Japan

This story is told through the eyes of Sean and was written for an english language A level project. It received an A. Nicky is the other central character but I can't tell you what happens, it'll give the plot away. You'll have to read it. I recommend you copy and paste it and read it from a printout if possible as it's so long. Gina gave this story to Sean at the manchester KYE signing.

James and I shook our heads. Our two friends were screaming loudly at each other. They had started by pushing and shoving each other; but then they soon stopped. The next thing we heard; was a loud thud. We turned around and saw Nicky on the floor; screaming loudly. Then we saw Richey on his knees with his hands around Nicky's throat. Oh dear. I thought. They're at each others throats again. Richey violently shook Nick; then removed his hands and began pulling Nick up by his hair. I shook my head and sighed. What was wrong with the two of them?

James walked over to Richey and Nicky. Richey threw Nick at him. Both James and Nick fell to the floor. Nick stood up and ran charging towards Richey. James walked over to my side and we watched Rich and Nick run towards each other. The next thing we heard was a very loud scream and the two of them attacking each other violently. Me and James looked at each other; we had to do something; otherwise we would have to advertise for one new bass player and one new rhythm guitar player for our four piece band.

"We've got to do something," I whispered.
"Like what?" hissed James.
"Why don't you intervene?" I asked quietly.
"Right; will do!" replied James.

James stormed up to Nicky and Richey and pulled them apart. James was fuming; he'd had enough of their arguing and bickering and was determined to put a stop to it; and to find out why they were at each others throats for. I stood silently watching James stand in the middle. Be careful James! I thought. Don't try to get attacked! If you need me; give me shout! I'll be here if you need me. Nicky tried to move past James to get to Richey; but, James; being the human brick-tank that he is; managed to hold Nicky back and away from Richey.

"Right!" snapped Richey. "That does it! I'm leaving!"
"I'm going too!" snapped Nicky storming towards the door.
Nicky walked over to the door and opened it. I could only watch and stare; as Nicky gave Richey an evil glare. Richey stormed over to the door; but James held him back.
"I'm going to the casino!" snapped Nicky. "I'll only come back; when I want to!"
"Suit yourself," I replied. "See you Nick."
"Later!" snapped Nick slamming the door behind him.
"If he goes in debt; don't expect me to bail him out!" replied Richey. "I'm fed up to the back teeth of lending him money! Well; this time; he can fight his own battles!"
"What's the matter with you two anyway?" asked James.
"He wants to marry her!" snapped Richey. "He said that he loved me; and no one else!"
"Don't be too hard on him," I replied. "He's going through a lot of problems."
"Bollocks! He doesn't give a shit about me!" screamed Richey; tears rolling down his eyes. "I mean; I give him love and he takes it all! Yet; he never gives me any loving; and we are meant to be a couple for goodness sake!"
"Maybe you two should split up," I said.
"No!" screamed Richey. "I love my muffin!"
"Maybe it is time to let each other go," suggested James.
"Never!" shouted Richey. "Now; get out of my room!"
"We're going," James and I said together, heading towards the door.
"Get gone!" snarled Richey. "Or do I have to get nasty?"
"We're gone!" relied James and I opening the door; leaving the room; and closing the door behind us. "We're going to our room now."

James and I walked over to our room which was next door to Richey's room. James opened the door. I entered the room and sat on my bed. James closed the door behind him; walked over to my bed and sat down by my side. Not a word was spoken between me and James; but we had a feeling, we knew what each other were thinking of.

"James," I said. "I fear the worst."
"Me too," replied James. "Me too."
"What shall we do?"
"What can we do?"
"Is there anything we can do?"
"No; there isn't."
"You mean; we can do nothing?"
"I'm afraid so."
"Oh great! What are we going to do now?"
"Chill out Seanie!"
"How? Just tell me James; how on earth are we supposed to continue our tour with them two love birds constantly at each others throats? Answer me that; dipstick!"
"Relax, will you!?"
"How can I? I'm phoning Room Service!"
"What the hell for?"
"Strawberries and chocolate ice cream with double whipped cream on top!"
"Is it vegetarian friendly double whipped cream?"
"Yes; and so is the ice cream!"
"You're gonna get fucking fat!"
"I don't fucking care! I'm hungry!"

With that; I then got off my bed and walked over to the telephone and dialled for Room Service. James shook his head; he didn't seem to approve of me ordering one of my favourite dessert dishes. I looked at my watch as I ordered the desert; it was eleven thirty in the evening. We had just performed in front of a sell out crowd in Kawasaki. It was our first night in the city and we had done a bloody good gig. During the day we had been filming sections for our new single; 'Motorcycle Emptiness' but as soon as we saw the police arrive; we had to run away again.

After I had ended the call; I sat on my bed and sulked. I was not happy. Don't get me wrong; I do enjoy going to Japan and going abroad; but when we had to run from the police; yet again; it left me feeling worn out; gasping for breath. Never have I ever ran that fast in my life; even at school; I had never ran so fast. Suddenly; there was a knock at the door.

"I'll get it," I said, getting up off my bed.
"It's probably your dessert," replied James sitting on his bed.
"I hope so," I replied walking over to the door and opening it.
James was right. It was my dessert. I took the trolley off the porter; gave him two one hundred yen notes; wheeled in the trolley and closed the door behind me.
"Care to join me?" I asked producing two spoons.
"Yes please," replied James, licking his lips.
"Here is a spoon," I said, handing James a spoon.
"Oh good," replied James. "Can't wait to try it!"

James and I started to eat the desert I had just ordered. We were both incredibly hungry and couldn't stop eating the dessert. James and I laughed at each other, as the two of us slowly covered each other in chocolate ice cream and double whipped cream. I sighed loudly; realising that Nicky and Richey were not in here, enjoying themselves; but instead, sulking like school boys.

As I continued to eat; I felt incredibly guilty. I had to do something! I felt like I was carrying an incredibly heavy weight. I put down my spoon and was about to leave the room; when the telephone rang. I walked back over to the telephone and picked it up.

"Hello?" I asked. "Who is it?"
"Hello," said a woman's voice. "This is Linda; I have a young man on the other line called: Nicky. He wants to talk to you; do you want me to put him through to you?"
"Go ahead Linda," I replied.
"Connecting you," replied Linda.
"Hello?" I said.
"Hi Sean!" replied Nicky. "Have you got the time?"
"Yes; it's quarter past midnight," I replied.
"Listen. I've nearly finished at the casino. I'll be back soon."
"Good; get a taxi back here."
"No way! I can walk it! Besides; it's only a half hour walk away."
"No chance! You'll get mugged; raped; attacked. I'm not having that on my conscience! Get a cab; and I'll pay for it! Okay Nick?"
"Sean!" hissed James. "Are you mad?"
"Excuse me," I said.
"Sure," replied Nicky.
"Piss off James!" I hissed, covering the telephone. "If I'm paying; I'm paying for him to get back here, safe and sound! You got that?"
"Fair enough!" replied James. "It's your money; you're wasting on him!"
"Sean?" asked Nicky. "Are you still there?"
"Sure," I replied, placing the telephone back to my ear.
"I'm walking!" snapped Nicky.
"No you're not! I'll order you a taxi!" I replied firmly.
"Goodbye!"
"Don't you dare hang up on…"
"Has he hung on you?" asked James.
"Yes!" I snapped, placing the telephone back on the hook.
"Never mind," replied James. "Let's eat!"
"I feel really bad now," I moaned.
"What for? If he's walking; then he'll be okay."
"No he won't! He'll be hurt!"
"Just eat; and stop moaning!"

James and I continued to eat our dessert. I looked at my watch. It was twenty past twelve in the morning. I stopped eating; because I felt sick. I placed my spoon on the table near my bed; and entered the bathroom. I lifted up the toilet seat; knelt down and violently threw up in the toilet. I had a feeling, I was going to die on an overdose of strawberries; double whipped cream and chocolate ice cream. What a way to go! Overdosing on luxury! My mother would be proud of me.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the bathroom door. I stopped puking in the toilet; and turned to face the door. The door opened. It was James. I looked at him and smiled weakly. He looked at me; shook his head and sighed loudly. I shook my head. I couldn't believe what I had done.

"Are you all right?" asked James.
"No," I moaned. "I've just been sick!"
"Yeah; I wondered why you vanished."
"I think I overdid it!"
"You think you overdid it!?"
"I know! My stomach hurts!"
"Sean; you are getting far too fat!"
"I know! I've put far too much weight on since last year!"
"That is an understatement!"
"I feel queasy!"
"Is it any wonder?"

Suddenly; there was a knock at the door. James looked at me. I looked at him and groaned loudly. "I'll get it," said James. "You; stay there." "You got it!" I groaned, and faced the toilet once again. I began trembling and shaking.

Suddenly; I puked up again. I couldn't help it. I had completely overdone it on the dessert front. I heard voices outside the room. It sounded like James and Richey talking about something or someone. It's probably me they're talking about. I thought. Or is it Nick? I wish I knew. I wish they would come in here and tell me. Come on you two. Come in here. The next thing I heard was the bathroom door being open wider than before. At last; they've come in. I thought. They've come to see me. I stopped puking and turned around, as James and Richey entered the room.

"Hello Sean," said Richey. "How are you?"
"I feel sick," I groaned.
"He's overdone it!" snapped James.
"What on?" asked Richey.
"Strawberries; double whipped cream and chocolate ice cream," I moaned.
"Ooh! You little fat blob!" replied Richey.
"Shut up!" I groaned. "I feel shit!"
"Shame; isn't it?" replied James. "He doesn't know the meaning of overdoing it!"
"Poor Sean," said Richey. "You have indeed overdone it!"
"Tell me about it!" I sighed. "I need to stop eating."
"No you don't," replied James. "You'll just have to watch what you eat."
"Any of you two got the time?" asked Richey.
"Yeah," I replied, looking at my watch. "It's half twelve."
"I'm going to bed now," replied Richey.
"What if Nick phones?" asked James.
"Tell him not to bother me," replied Richey, leaving the bathroom. "He'll have to sleep outside our room; or you guys can put up with him! I'm not putting up with him any more!"
"See you man," said James.
"Yeah. I'll see myself out!" replied Richey leaving the room.
"Goodbye!" I shouted.

I turned away from James and violently puked in the toilet. I felt as though I was going to die. My stomach began churning like butter. I couldn't stop puking. I began shaking like a leaf. James tapped me on the shoulder. I flushed the toilet chain; and groaned, clutching my stomach.

"Are you all right?" asked James.
"I have so overdone it!" I moaned. "Never again. I'm never OD'ing on that stuff again."
"Shall we eat the rest of tomorrow?"
"Yeah, providing it doesn't go off!"

I slowly stood up. James helped me stand up. My legs wobbled like jelly. I had turned into a sack of heavy potatoes. My stomach gurgled loudly. James walked with me and out of the bathroom; and over to our beds. I took one look at the dessert I had ordered before hand and groaned.

"Can you get rid of it?" I asked.
"I'll eat it, if you want me to," replied James.
"Have you got the stomach for it?"
"Oh yeah. I can eat loads; and not put on that much weight; because I have a really good metabolism. You know me Sean. I'm a human dustbin!"
"Fair enough. Just don't overdo it; like I did."
"Don't worry; I won't; trust me."
"Just be careful."
"I will."

I removed my shoes and socks and sat on my bed; watching James stuffing his face. I looked at my watch; it was five to one in the morning. I slowly removed my long sleeved SEGA™ tee shirt and my tight white jeans. All I was wearing was my underpants. I climbed into my bed. James turned to me; placed the spoon, by the side of the trolley carrying the dessert and groaned.

"You've overdone it," I said.
"No," replied James. "I'm full. I'm going to bed now. Goodnight Sean."
"Goodnight James," I said.
"I'll switch the little light off; once I'm in bed," replied James.
"Good for you," I smiled.
"Thanks Sean," replied James; turning away from me. "Just getting ready now."

I didn't reply. I was far too tired. I yawned; removed my watch and left it on my table; it was ten past one in the morning; and went straight to sleep. I heard James turn off the light a few minutes ago. Peace at last. Nothing and no one could disturb me from my slumber.

The next thing I heard, was a knock at the door of my hotel room. I groaned. I knew full well that James wasn't going to answer it; so I answered it. I walked over to the door; and opened it. It was Richey; and his eyes were all red and sore. He had been crying. I wonder why he's so upset for? I thought. Is he missing Nicky? Hasn't Nick not returned from the casino?

"What's up man?" I asked. "Can't sleep?"
"It's my muffin," said Richey. "He's not back. Sean; I'm worried."
"He's probably on his way back now," I replied.
"Sean; it's half one! I'm scared. I think he's been hurt," sobbed Richey.
"Leave it. He'll turn up."
"And what if he doesn't? Then what?"
"Just go to bed."
"I'll try. Goodnight Sean."
"Yeah; you too."
"See you."

Richey walked away; back to his hotel room, quietly crying. I sighed; closing the door behind me and climbed back into bed. I yawned again; and went to sleep. I hope I don't get disturbed again. I thought. I better not; otherwise I'm gonna get grouchy! I closed my eyes and began thinking of my girlfriend, Rhian; wearing nothing but a skimpy, tiny; two piece bikini. Oh Sean! You're such a pervert! I thought. Then again; you'd make a fab porn star; and so would she. Oh yes indeed; the two of you would. I smiled to myself and continued to think of my naked girlfriend.

Suddenly; the telephone rang. I groaned and picked it up. It was Linda again. What does she want? I thought. I hope she doesn't fancy me. I placed the telephone to my ear.

"Yes Linda; who is it?" I asked, yawning.
"It's Nick again," she replied.
"Put him through."
"Here he is."
"What do you want?" I asked.
"Help," replied Nicky, sobbing.
"What for?"
"I'm being used…"
"Yeah; yeah; tell it to the neighbours; or Richey; your so-called other half."
"No. You don't understand; do you?"
"Understand what?"
"I'm now the property of Dr Jonathon Wang-Lee."
"What are you talking about?"
"I've been made a rent boy."
"Say what?"
"You heard me. I'm a male prostitute."
"You're a male prostitute?"
"Yeah. I'm currently being made into a Geisha girl."
"You what? What the hell are you talking about?"
"Unless you guys can bail me out; I remain the property of Dr Wang-Lee."
"How did that happen?"
"I finished playing in the casino; but on the way out; I spilt some fat guy's drink. Dr Wang-Lee; stepped in and saved my life. However; I am now his sex slave. I have to do everything he tells me; which isn't very good; believe me Sean."
"So; when he tells you to dress up; do you?"
"Yes. Please help me Sean. You see; in ten minutes; I won't be able to talk to you."
"What do you mean?"
"I will have to wear a full face mask that covers my mouth and nose; leaving only tiny eye holes for my eyes to see out of. I will then have to wear dark brown contact lenses and a long black hair wig; that will be tied back; in a Geisha style."
"Won't you be able to breathe?"
"Only through two very tiny nose holes."
"What about make up?"
"He's putting it on me; as I speak. Please hold."
"Sure; I'll wait for you."

I waited patiently for Nicky. Hurry up! I thought. I need to sleep. Nick; get on with it! I yawned; as I was incredibly tired. What was keeping Nick? Then, I remembered; he was having his face made up with lots of facial make up. This is taking forever. I thought. I need to get to sleep. Suddenly, the telephone crackled back into life. It was Nick and he sounded upset and unhappy.

"What kept you?" I hissed loudly.
"I need you Sean," croaked Nick.
"What for?"
"I've just had make up slapped all over my face."
"So? You always wear make up!"
"Sean! Listen to me. I have also had my face measured!"
"Why? What's going on?"
"He's getting ready to put the mask on me! Please, bail me out, Sean!"
"Can't you get Richey to do it?"
"I can't get through to him!"
"Goodnight Nick."
"Sean! Don't hang up! I'm begging you!"
"Later Nick."
"It will be too late by then!"
"What are you talking about?"
"By the morning, I will be bashed repeatedly over the head; until I think I am a woman; and I will then subconsciously wanna have my dick removed and want a pair of tits instead!" sobbed Nick, bursting into tears. "Please help me Sean! I don't wanna be a woman; I wanna be a man!"
"I'll try; but next time; when I say: 'Get a taxi!' I mean it!" I said firmly. "Now; hold tight. I'll tell James and Richey about your plight. Now; don't you worry; okay?"
"Hurry Sean! I don't have long!"
"Okay; okay. We're on our way."
"Thank you. Goodbye Sean," sobbed Nick; putting the telephone down at his end.
"Whatever…" I replied; putting the telephone down at my end.

I looked at my watch. It was two o'clock precisely. I looked at James, snoring peacefully. I had to wake him up. I yawned and sighed loudly. I clambered out of bed; and walked over to James's bed. I gently tapped him on the shoulder. James didn't twitch nor stir in his sleep. I decided to shake him; so I did. I shook James rather viciously. I wanted him to wake up.

"James!" I hissed. "Get up!"
"What?" moaned James. "What time is it?"
"It's two a.m. in the morning!"
"Piss off! I ain't getting out of bed!"
"Nick's in trouble!"
"What's he done?"
"He's gonna become a girl."
"I always said that he was far too feminine!"
"He's in deep shit! We've gotta bail him out!"
"Get Richey to do it!"
"Richey doesn't care! Richey wants him out!"
"What? Richey wants out of the relationship?"
"I mean; Nick couldn't get through to him on the 'phone."
"Oh god!" moaned James. "Get dressed; and go get him."
"Who?" I asked. "Nick?"
"No; stupid! Richey!"
"Okay! Will do."
"Get gone!"

I quickly slipped on my socks; white jeans; long sleeved tee shirt; and left mine and James's shared hotel room. I looked at my feet; as I knocked on Richey's door. I had forgotten to put my shoes on. I shook my head and groaned with a slight disappointment.

"Hold on," a voice mumbled from inside the room. "I'm coming."
"Okay," I replied, removing my hand from the door.

Suddenly, James appeared with my boots in his hands. I smiled and slipped on my boots as me and James waited for Richey to appear. Suddenly, the door opened. There was Richey, wearing a pair of dark sunglasses. James and I smiled at Richey. Richey stood outside his door.

"Come on man!" I said. "Nick's in danger."
"Okay," replied Richey, closing the door behind him.
"How are we going to get to where he is?" asked James.
"Easy. We simply 'borrow' the money off Martin," said Richey.
"Will this work?" I asked.
"Let's go to his room; and get it," replied Richey.

The three of us ran to Martin's room. I knocked on the door. No answer. James turned the door; it was locked. Richey produced a skeleton key, and started picking at the lock. Eventually, the door opened. The three of us ran inside. James shut the door behind him. Richey and James stood by the door; waiting patiently for me to get the money.

"Martin!" I hissed, walking over to Martin's bed. "Martin! We need money!"
"Take it from my wallet," moaned Martin. "You can pay me later. Now; get out!"
"Great! Thanks!" I replied. "Where is your wallet?"
"Underneath all my clothes," groaned Martin. "On the chair to your left."
"Thanks Martin," I smiled.
"Now; after you've done that; you and the others; get out!"
"Okay; sorry Martin."

I ran over to the chair on my left, and started sifting through the clothes; to find the wallet. Eventually; I found the wallet; and opened it. There; bulging out of Martin's pockets was ten thousand yen; in thousand yen notes. I paused; and then decided to take six thousand yen out of the wallet. I placed the six one thousand yen notes into my trouser pocket, put the wallet back on the chair; and all of Martin's clothes on the chair and walked back over to James and Richey.

"Well?" hissed James. "Did you get it?"
"Yes; I've got six grand!" I replied.
"You dick!" snapped Richey. "You should've taken all the money!"
"We have to pay Martin back," I replied.
"Okay then," replied Richey. "Maybe I should shut up now!"
"Yes you should," whispered James. "Be like Nick! Keep quiet!"
"He's permanently quiet now," I said, opening the door.
"Why?" asked Richey walking through the door.
"Yeah; why can't he talk any more?" asked James following Richey.
"Because," I replied, closing the door behind me. "He can't!"
"Where is he being held?" asked James.
"At the home of Dr Jonathon Wang-Lee," I replied.
"Do you know where that is?" asked Richey.
"I don't," replied James. "How about you Sean?"
"I don't know either; sorry!" I said mournfully.
"Oh; well; that's just great!" snapped Richey. "My Nick is in danger; and no one knows where he is! This is absolutely fucking great!"
"Easy son," said James.
"I'll give you fucking easy!" screamed Richey.
"Stop it!" I snapped. "Let's go and rescue Nick!"
"How are we gonna get Nick?" asked James.
"I've got it!" I gasped. "Excuse me; I'm gonna make a call. Back in a few minutes."
"Where are you going?" asked Richey.
"You and James go downstairs and wait for me in the lobby," I replied. "Now; hurry up and go! Go on you two! Get gone!"
"We're going," replied James and Richey.

"In fact; I've got another idea," I replied. "Come on! Let's go and get the lift!" The three of us ran to the lift. I pressed the button; and within a few seconds; the lift appeared. The three of us stepped in the lift. James pressed the button for the ground floor. Within two minutes; we arrived on the ground floor. I, then ran to the reception and saw Linda fast asleep. I secretly picked up the telephone. Now to find out the address of Dr Wang-Lee. I thought. Shouldn't take too long now.

"You have to press '7' to get an outside number," muttered Linda; in her sleep. "Thanks," I replied, pressing the number seven. I looked at the telephone and saw a button that read: 'Last no. redial'; so I pressed it. To my delight; the telephone rang. Suddenly; a gruff male voice answered the call.

"Yes?" snapped the voice.
"Hello; is that Dr Wang-Lee?" I asked.
"Yes; who are you?" demanded the Doctor.
"Hello; I'm from the 'Well Safe Prostitute Protection' company," I lied. "I believe you have one of our clients. A young man called: 'Nick', as our records show sir."
"No I don't!" snapped Dr Wang-Lee.
"You're lying Doc!" I snapped. "We're coming over to yours now!"
"You don't know where I live!" snapped Dr Wang-Lee.
"Yes we do!"
"What? You know my address?"
"Oh yes we do. We've got you on our register. Can you confirm your address to us?"
"How dare you charge me!"
"Tell us your address; and we might leave you alone."
"Okay. It is 565 Bonsai Boulevard; Kawasaki; Japan."
"That's the address we've got here. Thank you Doctor. See you soon."
"Goodbye!"
Richey and James ran up to me. I smiled at the two of them; and proceeded to phone for a taxi.
"Well?" asked James. "Did you get the address?"
"Yes," I replied. "It's… Hold on…"
"Hello 'Bonsai' taxis. Jenny speaking. Can I help you?"
"Hello Jenny; I'm Sean. Can I have a taxi to 565 Bonsai Boulevard please?"
"On it's way."
"Thanks Jenny."
"Goodbye Sean."
"Bye Jenny."

I placed the telephone back on the hook. James; Richey and I all walked out of the hotel. A few minutes later; a taxi arrived; the three of us clambered into the taxi.

"Where to?" asked the driver.
"565 Bonsai Boulevard and step on it!" I said.
"Right; on my way!" replied the driver and drove off at an incredible speed.
"Where are we going?" asked Richey.
"To rescue Nick!" I replied.
"How did you get him to reveal his address to you?" asked Richey.
"I threatened him with legal action!" I replied smugly.
"Nice one!" replied James.
"Yeah; well done Sean!" replied Richey. "Nick would be proud of you."
"I fear it's too late," I sighed.
"What do you mean?" asked James.
"Dr Wang-Lee is turning him into a woman!" I sighed.
"Oh my poor Nicky!" sobbed Richey. "He's doomed!"
"Can you go any faster?" I asked the taxi driver.
"Sure," replied the driver. "Hold on tight! Here goes!"

The taxi driver drove faster than before. Hey! I thought. Slow down! You're going too fast! We're gonna get caught by the cops! Eventually; we arrived at 565 Bonsai Boulevard. Richey; James and I all clambered out of the taxi.

"How much?" I asked.
"Two thousand yen," replied the taxi driver.
"Here you go," I said; handing three thousand yen. "Plus, a one thousand yen tip."
"A thousand thank you's!" replied the driver, taking the money from me and handing me a card. "If you need me; here's my number. I'd be honoured to pick you and your friends up later on."
"Thanks," I replied, taking the card. "Goodbye."
"Sayonara!" replied the driver; and drove off at record speed.
"Now what Sherlock?" asked James.
"Rescue Nick; dummy!" I snapped. "Come along you two!"
"Okay," replied Richey. "Let's go!"

The three of us walked up to the front door of the house, that belonged to Doctor Wang-Lee. I sighed loudly; then, after a brief pause; I knocked on the door. Now to wait patiently for him to open this door. I thought. Richey yawned; he was beginning to feel very tired. James started to whistle a tune; whilst I twiddled my thumbs out of complete boredom. I know you're in there! I thought angrily. Open up now! I demand that you do at once!

Suddenly; the front door opened. There; standing there, at the door, was a very tall Geisha girl; looking very upset. I smiled at the girl; trying to make her feel at ease. James stopped whistling the tune; and gasped as he looked at the girl. Richey stood closer to me, because the girl was so tall; he decided to stand next to me, clinging to my right arm in the process.

"Don't be afraid," I said. "I'm not gonna hurt you." The girl looked at me, James and Richey and promptly burst into tears. She looked very unhappy and miserable. It was as though I had said something that might have offended her. "Are you all right?" asked James. The girl shook her head, and began trembling quite violently. "Is this the home of Doctor Wang-Lee?" asked Richey. The girl nodded her head; but was still crying. She looked very frightened and equally terrified. Poor thing. I thought. She must be one of his many slaves. I do feel for her though.

"Can we speak to him?" I asked. "We need to talk to him!"
The girl raised her long, thin, trembling hand, and walked inside the house.
"She's probably gone to get him," said James, walking over to my left hand side.
"Well spotted," I replied sarcastically.
"She looks very familiar," said Richey into my right ear.

Suddenly; the tall girl arrived back at the front door, and beckoned the three of us into the seedy house that belonged to Doctor Wang-Lee. James; Richey and I all followed the tall girl into the house. Being the last one to enter the house; I closed the front door behind me. The tall girl led me; James and Richey into the lounge of Doctor Wang-Lee's house.

"She's bloody massive!" whispered James.
"That's only 'cos she's wearing heels!" hissed Richey.
"Oh no she's not!" I replied quietly.
"What!?" gasped Richey.
"Holy crap!" replied James. "How tall is she then?"
"I'd say about six foot plus," I replied.
"Poor thing," sighed Richey.
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"She must have picked on at school," replied Richey. "Well; with her height and all!"

Eventually; the three of us; plus the tall girl, arrived into the lounge of Doctor Jonathon Wang-Lee. The girl closed the door behind the three of us and herself; trembling as she did so. I watched her hand shake as she closed the door; suppressing her tears, making sure that the Doctor didn't see her cry. "Come here Princess," said Doctor Wang-Lee. The tall girl walked over to the Doctor, without saying a single word. "Kneel!" snapped Doctor Wang-Lee.

The tall girl knelt by the side of Doctor Wang-Lee; tears filling her eyes again. Poor thing. I thought. She's got it really hard. Why is he so harsh to her? I hope he isn't abusing her! I watched the tall girl lower her head in sadness; trying not to let him see her tears. James; Richey and I all sat down on the couch, making ourselves comfortable.

"Gentlemen; please, don't be afraid to sit down on my couch," said Doctor Wang-Lee. "Can I offer you some tea? Coffee perhaps?"
"No thanks," I replied. "We're here to do business with you."
"Of course," replied Doctor Wang-Lee cruelly.
"Can we have our friend; I meant; client; back please?" asked Richey nervously.
"Friend?" asked Doctor Wang-Lee.
"Our clients are like friends to us," I said quickly.
"Excuse me gentlemen," said Doctor Wang-Lee. "You might want to cover your ears."
"Why?" asked James.
"You might not approve of me shouting at the girl," replied Doctor Wang-Lee.
"We're used to it," said Richey.
"We hear it all the time," I replied.
"Stroke my leg!" snarled Doctor Wang-Lee to the girl. "Now!"

The girl nodded her head; and started to stroke the evil Doctor's leg. I watched her slowly raise her head and watched her quietly cry, as she continued to stroke the Doctor's leg.

"She looks a bit Western," said James. "Parents from the Western part of the world?"
"Yes; her father was British," replied Doctor Wang-Lee. "He died before she was born."
"Doesn't she speak?" asked Richey.
"She's taken a vow of silence since her mother died," said Doctor Wang-Lee.
"When was that?" I asked.
"When she was sixteen," replied Doctor Wang-Lee.
"How old is she now?" I asked.
"Twenty three," replied Doctor Wang-Lee.
"How long have you had her in your possession?" asked Richey.
"Quite a while," replied Doctor Wang-Lee.
"She's quite a tall girl," I said.
"Her father was tall," replied Doctor Wang-Lee. "She takes after him in that way."
"Does she have any brothers or sisters?" asked James.
"No. She's an only child," replied the Doctor. "That's why I've taken to her."
"I see," I replied.
"Can you please excuse me once again gentlemen?" asked the Doctor.
"Oh yeah," replied Richey.
"Sure; no problem," said James.
"Go right ahead," I replied. "As I said before; we're used to it."
"You stupid; stupid girl!" barked the Doctor at the girl. "Stop what you are doing at once!"

The girl stopped what she was doing at once. She looked like she was going to burst into tears again. He is really cruel. I thought to myself. However I think I know who she really is. I have this feeling; but I'm not that sure if it is; who I think it is.

"Stroke my leg properly; or do I have to beat you like a dog?" Doctor Wang-Lee shouted. The girl nodded her head; sighed and stroked Doctor Wang-Lee's leg. I watched tears fill the girl's eyes. I couldn't believe what I had just heard from the Doctor. How can anyone be so cruel? I thought. It's wrong to hurt a woman like that! I should know; I've seen when a man shouts at a woman. My dad was like this to my mother.

"Now," said Doctor Wang-Lee. "Where were we up to gentlemen?"
"We were discussing something," I said firmly. "Like our client!"
"Ah yes," replied Doctor Wang-Lee cruelly. "Of course we were."

The girl began trembling even more. The girl slowly raised her head. I looked at her eyes; they were bulging with fear and sadness. I wonder; is she wearing contact lenses? I thought to myself. I mean; those brown eyes don't look all that real to me. They must be contacts! I felt a deep unease looking around the lounge of the house belonging to Doctor Wang-Lee. I wonder what goes on behind closed doors. I thought. Wait a minute! I'm supposed to get my friend back! I'd better find out from this so-called Doctor what the tall girl's name is.

"Erm; what's her name?" I asked.
"Whose name?" asked the Doctor.
"The girl who happens to be stroking your leg," I replied. "What's she called?"
"Nicola," said the Doctor. "Why do you ask me such trivial questions?"
"I only wanted to know," I replied. "Surely that's not a crime is it Doctor?"
"I suppose not," replied Doctor Wang-Lee.
"Oh good," replied James.
"Gentlemen," said Doctor Wang-Lee. "Would you like a drink?"
"No!" snapped Richey. "You've already asked us that!"
"Okay," replied Doctor Wang-Lee.
"Listen Doc!" I snarled. "We came here to do business!"
"Fine," replied the Doctor. "Can you three gentlemen please excuse me and my slave-girl for a brief moment, if you wouldn't mind?"
"Of course," I replied.
"Stop that at once!" barked Doctor Wang-Lee to the girl.
The girl stopped stroking the evil, twisted Doctor's leg at once; and lowered her head in shame.
"Stand up!" shouted the Doctor.

The tall girl stood up; trembling and shaking with fear. It was as though; she knew what was going to happen to her. The tall girl kept her head down through out the ranting and raving from the Doctor. "Get me my metal stick," sneered Doctor Wang-Lee. "Now!" The tall girl left the room; crying uncontrollably as she left. The girl continued to tremble and shake as she left the room. The girl shook her head, as she ran out of the room. She knew she was in trouble; and that there was nothing she could do about it.

"Hurry up!" shouted the Doctor angrily. The girl ran back into the room, carrying a metal stick in her hands. "Close the door behind you; and come here now!" snapped Doctor Wang-Lee. The girl closed the door behind her and walked over to the twisted, evil Doctor; trembling with fear. "Give me the stick!" barked Doctor Wang-Lee. The girl handed the Doctor the metal stick; tears filling her eyes once again. "Show me your buttocks and bend over my legs!" shouted the Doctor angrily.

The girl nodded her head; somewhat shamefully; then dropped her trousers and underwear. She, then bent herself over the Doctor's legs, placing her hands on the carpet. Richey, James and I all watched in silence, as we saw her entire body violently tremble and shake. The tall girl closed her eyes in fear. She knew that she was in for a hard time; and was going to pay the price for not obeying her master; the sick, evil, twisted and corrupt Doctor Jonathon Wang-Lee.

"Did you leave the front door open; when I asked you if they were at the door?" asked Doctor Wang-Lee angrily. "Well; did you? Remember; tell the truth!" The girl nodded her head; crying uncontrollably. She was very upset and very scared of the Doctor. "Did I tell you to leave the front door open?" asked the Doctor. The girl shook her head, crying miserably. She knew that she had done something wrong. "Didn't I tell you to close the front door?" asked Doctor Wang-Lee firmly. The girl nodded her head; shaking like a leaf; and trembling even more. Poor thing. I thought. It's as though she knows what's going to happen to her. I only wish I could do something; but I can't.

"Do you know what I'm going to do to you?" asked the Doctor cruelly. The girl shook her head. You do know what he is going to do to you. I thought. He is going to hurt you; whether you like it or not! I really wish I could help you; but I'm powerless to stop him!

"I'm going to punish you!" fumed Doctor Wang-Lee. "You wicked; evil; corrupt child!" The girl stopped shaking and trembling; yet the tears kept on falling from her face. "Take that!" snapped the Doctor; hitting the girl's backside with the metal stick. "How dare you defy me! How dare you indeed! You stupid, troublesome girl!" Richey; James and I all watched in complete utter silence and horror. The poor, tall girl was being beaten quite harshly. The three of us watched the Doctor violently lash her backside with the metal stick in his hands; growling and laughing wickedly at the poor, defenceless girl.

"Has she been bad?" asked James.
"Yes!" snarled Doctor Wang-Lee. "She has indeed been very bad!"
"Surely; this is bad malpractice," said Richey.
"She deserves it!" snapped the Doctor.
"Are you sure?" I asked.
"Yes!" barked Dr Wang-Lee. "She's a very naughty girl! She needs to be disciplined!"
"Aren't you going a bit too far?" suggested James.
"No!" growled the Doctor. "Never have I ever come across such an evil child, like this one!"
"How can you be so cruel?" asked Richey.
"I'm not being cruel!" sneered Dr Wang-Lee. "She's just not good!"
"Wait a minute!" I gasped. "She looks rather familiar to me!"
"Stand up!" barked the Doctor.
The tall girl and I both stood up. We both didn't know who he was talking to.
"Not you!" growled Dr Wang-Lee to me.

I sat down. The girl instantly pulled up her underwear. I gasped in horror. She, was in fact, a 'he'! I couldn't believe my eyes. My suspicions were right, after all! Oh my god! I thought. That's Nicky! I know it is! I gotta do something; otherwise its: 'Goodbye Nick!' What am I going to do?

"Pull your trousers up at once!" snarled the Doctor.
The girl nodded and quickly pulled up her trousers without saying a single word.
"That's no girl!" I snapped. "That's a bloke!"
"Sean!" hissed James.
"Sean's right!" replied Richey. "Didn't you see her bits?"
"She's got bits?" gasped James.
"You've got our friend!" I shouted.
"So what? You can't stop me!" shouted Dr Wang-Lee, standing up and walking over to the light switch. "As soon as I switch this light off; she's mine!"
"You won't get away with this!" I said firmly.
"Oh dear!" sneered the Doctor; switching off the light. "Looks like I win this time!"
"Hey!" I shouted. "Who turned out the lights?"
"The Doc did!" replied James.
"What's going on?" demanded Richey.
"I don't like this!" said James.
"Nicky! Where are you darling?" shouted Richey.
"He can't hear you!" I said. "Sorry Richey!"
"Damn that evil Doc!" replied Richey. "I'm gonna kill him!"
"You can't at the moment!" replied James. "He's turned the bloody lights off!"
"I can't see a blasted thing!" I said.

Suddenly; the lights came back on again. The evil Doctor had vanished, along with our friend; Nicky. The three of us looked around the lounge for clues. Where had the evil Doctor taken our friend? Richey stopped looking and fell to the floor, crying his eyes out.

"It's all my fault!" sobbed Richey. "I didn't mean for this to happen to him! My poor darling Nicky! He's gone! I'm never gonna see him again!"
"Stop your whining!" snapped James. "We'll find him!"
"I hope so!" sobbed Richey.
"We will find him!" I replied. "Trust me!"
"I really do hope so!" sobbed Richey. "I want my muffin back!"
"I know you do," I said. "He's gotta be somewhere in this creepy house."

Suddenly; the lounge door flew open. Standing there, was the evil Doctor Wang-Lee. I couldn't quite believe my eyes; as standing by the Doctor's side, dressed as a Geisha girl; was a bound and gagged Nicky! The three of us were horrified! What was the Doctor's evil, wicked plan; and what was he going to do to our friend Nicky?

"Let him go!" shouted Richey. "At once!"
"Never!" replied the Doctor, slamming the door in our faces.
"Hey!" shouted Richey; opening the lounge door. "He's turned off the bloody lights again!"
"What?" replied James.
"I don't believe this!" I fumed.
"We've gotta do something!" said Richey. "Otherwise; we might have to re-hire Flicker!"
"Oh no we're not!" snapped James. "After what that prick did to us! You can play bass!"
"Me?" I squeaked. "I can only play drums!"
"Not you dummy!" said James firmly. "I meant Richey!"
"But, I can't even play my guitar very well!" replied Richey. "Let alone bass!"
"We've gotta find Nick and fast!" I said. "We're running out of time!"
"Why? What time is it?" replied Richey.
"Three a.m. in the morning!" I replied.
"Three a.m. in the morning?" gasped James. "Oh shit! Haven't we got bits to film?"
"We're doing an afternoon shoot," I said.
"Are you sure?" asked Richey.
"Yes!" I snapped. "Now; let us go and find Nicky!"

Suddenly, the lights came on; and out stepped the Doctor with a bag full of weapons. The three of us clung to each other. We were all terrified. We knew that the Doctor was up to something; but we didn't quite know what he wanted us to do.

"Take a weapon!" barked Doctor Wang-Lee, "and I shall fight you. If all three of you win; then I will let your friend go. However, if you fail; you will pay me thirty million British pounds for your friend's safe well being! Choose your weapon wisely; fools!"

"What weapons do you have?" I asked.
"I have the following: two Katana blades; two pair of Numchuka and a Stakka-Bo staff," replied the Doctor. "Who wants what?"
"I want the blades!" snapped James.
"Catch!" replied Dr Wang-Lee; opening the bag and throwing the blades at James.
"Got them!" replied James, catching the blades.
"What about you?" asked the Doctor to Richey.
"I want the Numchuka!" demanded Richey.
"Catch them if you can!" sneered Dr Wang-Lee; opening the bag and throwing the Numchuka at Richey. "Don't be afraid of them!"
"I'm not afraid of them!" replied Richey, catching the Numchuka.
"What about you?" asked the Doctor to me. "Do you want the Stakka-Bo staff?"
"Is that the only weapon you've got left?" I asked.
"Yes," sneered Dr Wang-Lee; opening the bag and throwing the wooden stick at me.
"I've got it!" I said, grabbing the wooden stick.
"Right," replied the Doctor. "Who's going to take me on first?"
"Step into the lounge Doc!" I snapped.
"Right then, I will!" snarled Dr Wang-Lee, entering the lounge. "Which one of you is going to be my first victim? Don't be shy; tell me!"
"You've got our friend!" I snapped. "Isn't he your first victim?"
"I meant; which one of you three, will be my victim?" said the Doctor, closing the door behind him. "Tell me; or do I have to kill all three of you?"
"I'm gonna make you eat your words!" shouted Richey, lunging towards Dr Wang-Lee.
"Come and get me!" sneered Dr Wang-Lee.

Richey ran towards the Doctor; waving his Numchuka at the evil Doctor. The Doctor laughed wickedly at Richey. I didn't know whether or not to look; so I decided not to look. The next thing, I heard was an almighty scream. I slowly opened my eyes and saw Richey on the floor. The evil, twisted Doctor was pointing a gun at Richey's forehead. James turned to me, and shook his head. I sighed and shrugged my shoulders.

James saw his chance, picked up a heavy book; and threw it at Dr Wang-Lee. The evil Doctor dropped his gun and fell to the floor; unconscious. Richey stood up and kicked the evil Doctor in the head. The Doctor didn't move a muscle. Richey laughed wickedly. I shook my head; what was Richey doing to the evil Doctor?

"Okay man, give it a rest will you?" I said.
"Okay," replied Richey, slowly removing his leg from Dr Wang-Lee's head.
"We've gotta find Nick," said James.
"Where will he be?" asked Richey.
"I'll check upstairs and toilets!" I said. "Mainly because I need the loo!"
"I'll look in the rest of the front part of the house," replied Richey.
"I'll see if he's in the back part of the house!" said James.
"Let's get busy!" I said enthusiastically.

The three of us left the lounge. I ran up the stairs, past the bedrooms and into the bathroom. I needed the toilet very badly. It was all the chocolate ice cream; double whipped cream and fresh strawberries churning in my stomach. I lifted up the toilet seat; sat down on the toilet and did my business. I began humming a tune, as I sat on the toilet. I still couldn't get over Nicky dressed up a Geisha girl. Poor Nicky. I thought. I hope he is okay. I hope we can find him. I stopped humming the tune.

After finishing my business on the toilet; I looked in every bedroom for Nicky. There was no sign of him in any of the rooms upstairs; so I headed back down stairs, with my tail between my legs. I don't know how I'm going to tell Rich that I can't find Nick anywhere upstairs. I thought. I know he's somewhere; but I don't know where he is. I feel really guilty now. I've let him down very badly.

I saw Richey in the hallway downstairs, crying hysterically. James was standing by his side, shaking his head in disappointment. I walked up to the two of them. We had lost our friend Nick. I don't know how we're gonna tell Martin. I thought. I just don't know how we're gonna do it; but we've gotta do it some how. It's gonna be hard; but, where could Nick be?

"We've searched every where," said James.
"I can't find him either!" I replied.
"Wait a minute!" gasped James. "Richey! Stand up!"
"Why?" sobbed Richey.
"The Doctor had a set of keys in his pocket," replied James.
"What's that got to do with it?" cried Richey, slowly standing up.
"You're good at finding keys!" smiled James.
"And there is a cupboard under the stairs!" I replied.
"Nicky's in the cupboard!?" gasped Richey.
"Yeah; well, we've checked everywhere else!" smiled James.
"Right!" replied Richey, running into the lounge. "I'm on my way!"

A few minutes later, Richey arrived into the hallway, carrying a bunch of keys and grinning broadly. He looked very happy. James and I smiled at Richey. Richey had a talent for finding random keys that fitted certain locks. I, then remembered that Nicky's clothes were in the evil Doctor's room; and ran upstairs to retrieve Nicky's actual clothes.

"Once you've unlocked the door; wait for me!" I shouted; running up the stairs.
"Will do!" replied Richey.

I ran into Dr Wang-Lee's bedroom and found Nicky's clothes with a note by the side of them. The note read: 'Dear Sean, James and Richey. I am really sorry, but I can no longer see the three of you. I am afraid to say this, but I am now the property of Doctor Jonathon Wang-Lee. Since no one has paid the demand required (30 million pounds), I have no choice in the matter; but to become his slave. I will, in time, forgive you all, but I know that you all tried to save my life and I will try not to erase my feelings and memories I have of you all. However; if the three of you see me in the future, and I ignore you; it is because I have been forced to against my will. Please, tell my mum; dad; brother Patrick and female companion (sorry Richey); Rachel; that I love them dearly; like I love the three of you (especially you, Richey) but I will never be able to return home ever again. Thanks a lot. Remember; I love you all dearly; all of you will be in my thoughts and dreams. All my love; Nick. Ps: Don't mourn my passing; please, I beg of you! I don't want you to!'

Tears filled my eyes. The note was very poignant. I tore up the note in sadness and anger and scattered the paper over the floor in anger. I, then picked up Nicky's clothes; ran downstairs and as soon I got to the bottom of the stairs, I saw Richey flashing a torch into the cupboard.

"What's he doing?" I asked.
"He's trying to find Nicky," replied James.
"Nicky?" asked Richey. "Where are you muffin?"
"Look!" I said; pointing to a tiny little cage. "There is someone in there!"
"Oh my god!" gasped Richey. "You're right!"

There, crouched on the floor of the cage; was a trembling and frightened Nicky. Nicky was still in his Geisha girl costume; and still bound and gagged. Tears were rolling down his cheeks faster than a tap on full flow. He looked very scared and terrified; like an animal faced with a vehicle heading straight towards it; and not being prepared to stop, to let it cross the road safely.

"It's the Wire!" said James.
"Nicky!" shouted Richey.
"Oh god! Will you look at him?" I said; shaking my head. "He still looks like a girl!"
"That's only 'cos he's dressed like one!" snapped James.
"We've gotta get him out of there!" I replied.
"How the hell are we gonna do that?" asked James.
"Here," said Richey; handing James a key. "Use this one to open the cage."
"Okay," replied James; taking the key from Richey.
"Now; unlock the door!" replied Richey.
"How are we gonna get him out of there?" I asked.
"We've gotta coax him out," replied Richey.
"How do you mean?" I asked.
"I've unlocked the door!" shouted James.
"Nice one James!" replied Richey. "Keep hold of the keys though. We're gonna need 'em!"
"Right; heard you loud and clear," said James.
"Okay; let's get Nick out of this cage," I said.
"Hang on," replied Richey; placing the torch away. "Now, let me see…"
"Don't be afraid man," I smiled to Nicky. "We're gonna get you out of there."
"Yeah," replied Richey. "Don't you worry. I'll make sure of it."
"We could try making him walk backwards," I suggested to Richey.
"Not a bad idea Sean," replied Richey. "You've got some good ideas!"
"Thanks!" I replied.
"I mean it. You are quite a clever little dude," smiled Richey.
"Okay; shall we try it?" I asked.
"Try what?" asked Richey.
"My plan!" I replied.
"Okay then, let's do it," said Richey.
"Now; don't you worry Nick," I replied. "This ain't gonna hurt."
"Gently does it now," said Richey.
"Don't cry Nick," I said, watching the tears fill Nicky's eyes.
"Will you ever forgive me?" asked Richey.
Nicky nodded his head, and shuffled closer towards Richey.
"It's okay Nick," I smiled. "You'll be free in no time."
"I love you muffin," said Richey.

Suddenly, a pair of hands grabbed Nicky by the stomach. Nicky started struggling and squirming violently; tears rolling down his eyes, faster than a tap on full flow. What's going on? I thought. What's happening to poor Nicky? Who has got a hold of him? Could it be...? Oh no!

"Nicky!" screamed Richey.
"Oh no!" I gasped. "It's the Doctor! He's awake! He's got hold of Nick! We've gotta do something! Nick's in danger! We've gotta get him out!"
"It's okay!" said James. "I've got him!"
"Who?" asked Richey. "The Doc?"
"No!" replied James.
"James!" I hissed. "What are you doing man?"
"Just relax! I ain't the Doc!" replied James pulling Nicky out of the cage. "Calm down! I ain't gonna hurt him! You know me! I wouldn't hurt a fly!"
Nicky burst into tears; and began violently kicking James; as James pulled him out of the cage.
"You idiot!" snapped Richey. "You're hurting him!"
"Now; you relax!" replied James; bringing Nicky towards me and Richey. "Just; chill!"
"You dick!" I snapped. "You know how sensitive Nick is!"
"Oh; will you two just chill out!?" snapped James. "I got him out; didn't I?"
"Yeah; but now he's trembling even more!" I snarled.
"It's okay," said Richey to Nick. "You're safe now! Cheer up muffin."
"Now what?" asked James.
"Let's set him free!" I replied.
"How?" asked James.
"Allow me to start," said Richey removing the clips from Nicky's wig. "Clips gone; now to remove the wig. This won't take too long."

Richey removed the wig from a trembling and shaking Nicky; and handed James a key. Nicky slowly stopped crying; but continued to shake like a leaf.

"Here; make yourself useful," said Richey, "use this key to remove the chains from his ankles. Hurry up now! I mean it!"
"Okay; okay; keep your knickers on!" replied James; taking the key from Richey. "Thanks."
"Now to remove the mask," I said.
"Hold on a minute Sean," replied Richey. "We have to remove the gag first; and I'll do that."
"Right then; you do that," I replied. "Be careful; don't hurt him; like James did!"
"I'd never hurt my muffin," said Richey; removing the gag from around Nicky's mouth.
"I wasn't being rough!" protested James; removing the chains from Nicky's ankles.
"Then; what is your definition of being rough?" I asked.
"Erm; pulling people by their hair; slapping them across the face; tying them up," replied James. "You know; all the things you're not meant to do to people!"
"Now then; how do we get this mask off you?" asked Richey to Nicky. "It must come off!"
"Here's your keys," said James; handing Richey the keys.
"Thanks," replied Richey taking the keys from James.
"So; does it come off?" I asked.
"What?" asked Richey.
"The mask!" I replied.
"It's gotta come off!" said Richey. "Otherwise my darling Nicky is going to be stuck like this for the rest of his life! Which will be very unpleasant!"

Nicky burst into tears again. Richey cradled Nicky in his arms. I, then, saw a split seam by the neckline. I couldn't believe my good luck. Sean! You're a genius! I thought to myself. Oh; well done! Nice one! You clever little sod! You've done it again! You've found a flaw!

"Look!" I said; pointing to the split seam. "There's a split seam! That's where you remove it! That's where you take it off!"
"Well done Sean!" replied Richey.
"What's he found?" asked James; standing up and walking over to Richey; Nicky and me. "Tell me! I wanna know what's going on!"
"Here," said Richey; handing James another key. "Make yourself useful again. Remove the handcuffs that he's wearing; now!"
"Fair enough," replied James; taking the key from Richey. "I'll do that then."
"Good," smiled Richey. "Now to remove this mask!"
"You'd better hurry!" I replied. "It looks like poor Nick here, is slowly running out of air!"
"Here goes!" said Richey; slowly peeling the mask from Nicky's face. "I'm sorry Nick. I'm trying not to hurt you; like someone did before!"

Eventually; the mask was removed; as were the handcuffs that had been around Nicky's wrists. Richey flung his arms around Nicky's body; and was about to kiss Nicky on the lips; but realised that Nicky had a large piece of silver tape wrapped around his mouth. Richey lowered his head in sadness. I saw my chance, and gently removed the large piece of silver tape from Nicky's mouth. Nicky winced a little bit in pain; as I removed the large piece of silver tape from his mouth.

"It's okay Nick," I said. "Don't cry mate. You're gonna be okay."
"My lips," croaked Nicky. "I can talk! I feel weak and very tired!"
"Sean?" asked Richey. "Have you got the time mate?"
"Sure; it's quarter to four," I replied.
"My money!" gasped Nicky.
"What about it?" I asked.
"I won two grand on the fruities!" replied Nicky. "You see; that evil Doctor took it all off me! He's loaded! You should see his wallet! It's bulging with cash!"
"Where's his wallet?" I asked.
"In his pocket!" replied Nicky.
"Right," said James. "I'll get his wallet!"
"Remember; we owe Martin six grand," I said. "So; take out eight grand!"
"Actually," replied Richey. "You might wanna get more out!"
"Yeah," said Nicky. "Do it!"
"I'm going!" replied James, leaving the hallway and entering the lounge.
"You two are terrible!" I said. "But; I agree with your plan!"

Suddenly; James appeared with the evil Doctor's wallet in his hands. Richey dropped his Numchuka and began slowly slipping the wig back on Nicky. I dropped my wooden stick and James shook his head, dropping his blades. James sat down by my side and opened the wallet. Nick was right; there was loads of money in the wallet.

"Right," I said. "We need six grand for Martin; two grand for Nick; and anything else we might need. For example; new clothes; new shoes; you know the usual…"
"Let's give Martin ten grand," said Richey.
"Good idea," I replied.
"Yeah!" echoed James.
"Here we go," said Richey; pulling ten grand out of the Doctor's wallet. "Martin's dosh."
"Now; for the rest of us," said James.
"Hadn't we best call a cab to get us back to the hotel?" asked Nicky.
"I'll do that," I said. "Where's the telephone Nick?"
"In the lounge," replied Nick.
"Be careful," said James.
"What do you mean?" I asked nervously.
"The Doctor might wake up!" replied Richey.
"One of you three come with me," I said. "I ain't goin' on me own!"
"I will," replied James.
"Thanks," I replied.

James and I left the hallway and into the lounge. I walked over to the telephone; pulled out the card I had for 'Bonsai' taxi's and dialled the number on the card. Whilst, I waited patiently for an answer on the other line; James picked up the heavy book he had hit the Doctor with; and hit him again.

"What the hell did you that for?" I asked; covering the mouthpiece of the telephone.
"He was going to wake up again!" replied James.
"I see," I said. "Okay then."
Suddenly; the telephone crackled into life. It was Jenny once again.
"Hello Bonsai taxis; Jenny speaking," said Jenny. "Can I order you a taxi?"
"Hi Jenny; it's me; Sean," I replied. "Yes; I would like a taxi; with Keiko as our driver please. If you wouldn't mind please."
"Sure; I'll send him over," replied Jenny. "565 Bonsai Boulevard to the Hotel Pacific Meridien; am I right Sean?"
"Yup!" I replied. "See you soon."
"Well?" asked James. "When's it coming?"
"It's on the way," I replied; putting the telephone down.
"Great; let's go back to the others," said James, standing up.
"Right then; let's go!" I replied.

James and I left the lounge and entered the hallway; where we saw Nick and Richey sorting out the money from the Doctor's wallet; with smiles upon their faces.

"How much does he have?" I asked. "I bet he's got loads!"
"He has and all," replied Nicky. "He's got hundreds of thousands!"
"So; how much?" asked James.
"Four hundred and fifty two thousand yen," replied Richey.
"We're taking fifty two thousand of it though," replied Nicky.
"Who's having what?" I asked.
"I'm having twelve grand," replied Nicky.
"I'm having ten grand," said Richey.
"How much are we having?" asked James.
"Well; it's ten grand for you James," said Richey, handing James ten thousand yen.
"Thanks," replied James, taking the money from Richey.
"And here is ten grand for you Sean," replied Nicky; giving me ten thousand yen.
"Thanks; but what about Martin?" I asked; taking the money from Nicky.
"We've got ten grand for him," smiled Richey.
"That's nice of you guys," I said.
"Will you take it and look after it for us Sean?" asked Nicky. "If you wouldn't mind Sean."
"Not a problem," I replied; taking another ten thousand yen off Nicky.
"Taxi's here!" shouted James.
"Quick!" gasped Richey. "Come on everybody; let's get out of here!"

The four of us ran out of the house; closing the door behind us and ran over to the taxi; that was parked outside Doctor Wang-Lee's house.

"Where to?" asked Keiko.
"You know; our hotel!" replied James.
"On my way," said Keiko.

Keiko drove off at a rather dangerous speed. I looked at Nicky's eyes and noticed that that the brown contact lenses had gone; and he was back to his original eye colour of blue. Richey wrapped his arms around Nicky and slowly; the two of the them closed their eyes and began kissing each other again.

"I've still got your clothes," I said to Nicky.
Nicky raised his right thumb in delight and carried on kissing Richey quite happily.
"It's good to have them back," said James. "They make a lovely couple."
"Yeah; but I hope nothing goes wrong between them," I replied.
"And if something does?" asked James. "Then what?"
"Well; maybe they'll learn to let go of each other," I replied.
"I'm just concerned," said James.
"Don't worry; they'll be fine," I replied. "If they fall apart; they fall apart."
"I just don't want them to. They're meant for each other."
"James; some relationships fall apart. My parents marriage did."
"Yeah; but did your dad run off with another bloke?"
"James! That's not the point! Maybe, Nick will marry; maybe he won't! The point I'm trying to say; is; who cares? Not me; anyway, we shouldn't get involved!"
"Yeah; it's their lives."
"Exactly!"
"Hotel Pacific Meridien," said Keiko.

"Right; Nick; you take your clothes and wait for me," I said. "Richey; you help Nick. James; you get out and wait for me. Okay with that lads?" "Yeah, okay," replied Nicky; letting go of Richey and taking his clothes from me. Richey helped Nicky out of the taxi; as did James. I waited until all three of them left the taxi, before paying Keiko; the taxi driver the money that I owed him in taxi fare.

"How much?" I asked.
"Two thousand," replied Keiko.
"Here," I said; handing Keiko three thousand yen. "This is for you."
"Thank you most noble sir," replied Keiko; taking the money. "You very kind."
"Thanks mate. We'll remember you," I said; stepping out of the taxi.
"You're all fantastic," replied Keiko. "You help my family a lot."
"I think that the two grand I gave you; might do you and family some good," I said.
"Oh yes. I can now afford books for my children to study," replied Keiko. "You are most generous with your tips sir. Thank you."
"See you Keiko," I said. "I have to go now."
"Farewell sir," replied Keiko. "You are the best!"
"Goodbye now Keiko," I said.
"Sayonara!" replied Keiko, driving off at record speed.
"Are all of you three ready?" I asked; walking up to James; Richey and Nicky.
"I'm tired," yawned Nick.
"I bet you are," I said.
"What time is it?" asked Richey.
"Quarter past four," I replied.
"What time are we filming at?" asked Nicky.
"Between the hours of three and five p.m. later on today," I said.
"Let's go to bed," said James.
"Good idea," I replied.

The four of us entered the hotel and saw Linda; the receptionist; asleep by the telephone. Richey linked Nicky's arm and together, they slowly walked over to the lift; past the lobby. James and I followed the love birds, over to the lift, walking through an empty lobby.

"Can't wait to get to go to bed," said Nicky, yawning. "I'm really tired."
"You'll want to get out of that costume though," I replied.
"Well, just out of the fake boobs and bra bits; otherwise, I'm fine," said Nicky.
"What about the wig?" I asked.
"I'll take that off too," replied Nicky.
"I'll help you though," smiled Richey.
"Lift's here!" said James.
"Shall I give Martin the money now or later?" I asked.
"Now, would be good," replied James.
"Door's not locked," said Richey. "I didn't lock it."

The four of us entered the lift. Richey and Nicky clung to each other. James pressed the button for the fourteenth floor. The lift doors closed; and up went the lift; very slowly.

"You know Nick; you look quite a sight," I said. "Next time; remember what I say."
"Okay," replied Nicky.
"You know what Nick; you look even more beautiful without the mask," said Richey.
"Thank you," replied Nicky.
"Here we are; fourteenth floor," said James.
"Let's give Martin his money and go to bed," I suggested.
"Yeah; that's a good idea," replied James. "Nice one Sean."

The four of us stepped out of the lift; and walked over to the door of Martin's hotel room. I quietly turned the door; Richey was right! The door wasn't locked. I quickly and quietly ran into the room; and ran over to the chair. I, then removed Martin's clothes and placed them on the floor. I, then took out the ten thousand yen from one of my pockets; and placed the money into Martin's wallet. I, then placed Martin's clothes back on the chair and tip-toed out of the room; quietly closing the door behind me, without making a single sound.

I arrived back into the hallway. Richey and Nicky looked at me and James and smiled at the two of us. James and I smiled back at the two lovers. Nicky placed his right arm around Richey. Richey closed his eyes and began kissing Nicky's neck. Nicky giggled with delight.

"Goodnight lads," said Nicky.
"Don't you mean; good morning?" I replied.
"Yeah; that too!" muttered Nicky.
"See you two later," I replied.

Richey opened his eyes and stopped kissing Nicky's neck. Nicky and Richey walked over to their shared hotel room and entered it; as James and I entered our shared hotel room.

"I can't wait to go to bed," I said.
"Me too," replied James, yawning.

James and I began getting undressed; when all of a sudden, we heard a knock at the door. James and I turned to each other and groaned. All we had on, were our jeans. The two of us walked over to our hotel door and answered it. At the door, was Richey and Nicky. Nick was still in his costume; but had managed to remove the bra and fake breasts from his body.

"We wanna thank you two," said Nicky.
"Yeah; without you two; we wouldn't have been able to get back together," replied Richey. "Thanks a lot you guys! We love you two!"
"It's okay," I replied. "Now can we all go to sleep?"
"Can we hug you two?" asked Nicky and Richey together.
"What the hell for?" asked James.
"For bringing us closer together," replied Richey and Nicky together.
"I suppose so," I muttered.
"Thank you!" sang Nicky and Richey together.

The four of us hugged each other. Richey and Nicky clung together like leeches. I shook my head and sighed. Eventually; Nicky and Richey slowly removed themselves from me and James.

"Now; go to bed!" I snapped.
"Okay," replied Richey and Nicky.
"Whatever you do; don't fall asleep in our room!" said James firmly.
"Okay; okay; we won't," replied Nicky and Richey.
"Come on; get out!" I said firmly; walking Richey and Nicky to the door.
"Do we have to go?" asked Nicky and Richey.
"Yes!" I snapped. "Get out!"
"Sean!" moaned Richey and Nicky.
"Just leave! Now!" I snapped; pushing Nicky and Richey out of mine and James's hotel room. "Go on! Get out of here!"
"Goodnight then," groaned Richey and Nicky.
"It's the bloody morning!" I snapped.
"Whatever…" replied Nicky and Richey, yawning.
"Just; go!" I hissed. "It's half past four!"
"Okay then; we'll go," sighed Richey and Nicky.
"Goodbye lads," I said; closing the hotel room door on Nicky and Richey.
"See you Sean," replied Richey and Nicky.

I sighed; and walked back over to the two single beds in mine and James's shared hotel room. James looked at me and smiled mischievously. I wasn't amused in the slightest and scowled back at him. Suddenly, the two of us heard a loud 'thud!' James and I turned to each other sighed loudly. We had a feeling we knew what it was, that caused the loud noise.

"Come on," I said, yawning. "Let's go and check it out."
"Might as well," replied James.

James and I left our shared hotel room; opened our hotel room; and saw, their door open. Nicky and Richey had fallen fast asleep together, with their arms around each other. James and I looked at each other; shrugged our shoulders and sighed very loudly.

"I think we should carry 'em in," said James.
"Who are you carrying?" I asked.
"Nick; you can carry Rich."
"Do I really have to?"
"Yes; but first open the door wider," said James.
"Okay," I replied, walking over to the door; gently stepping over Richey and Nicky and opened the door.
"Opened it. Now what James?"
"Right," said James, walking over to me. "Stand back."
"All right then; I will," I replied, walking back; carefully stepping over Nicky and Richey to a clear safe patch of carpet. "What next?"
"Watch and copy me," said James; gently prising Richey away from Nicky and gently picking up Nick. "Once you've picked him up; be gentle; enter the room; and place him onto his bed."
"Okay," I whispered; walking up to Richey and gently picking him up. "Don't forget; we've got to remove Richey's sunglasses. He doesn't need them on now."
"I know," replied James; walking over to the two beds in the room.
"They both look really sweet," I said, following James.
"What makes it even better, is that; they both are sound sleepers."
"What do you mean?"
"They'll sleep through anything."
"That's good."

Eventually; James and I arrived at the two single beds. It was time to put the two love birds in their beds. I placed Richey onto his bed. James copied me, by placing Nicky onto his bed. I removed Richey's sunglasses and placed them on top of the mini cupboard in the room. Richey gently twitched in his sleep. He must be dreaming. I thought. Goodnight lads. Sleep well. James and I smiled at each other. The glamour twins were finally reunited and back together in each others arms. I walked over to Nick; stroked his hair, and removed the wig that he was wearing; then smiled to myself.

"Come on Sean," whispered James. "Let's go."
"Hold on," I hissed, placing the wig on the floor.
"Hurry up!" said James.
"One minute," I replied.
"Come on! It's quarter to five!" hissed James. "We both need the sleep!"
"Okay! Okay!" I whispered. "Jeez!"

Eventually; James and I left Richey and Nicky's shared hotel bedroom. I yawned loudly, as I closed the door behind me. Nicky and Richey were fast asleep; as James and I entered our room; feeling tired; but feeling rather happy with ourselves. We had done a good deed, in reuniting the two love birds and bringing them closer together. In fact; they were very happy; we were happy. Everything was just perfect; nothing could go wrong and no one could spoil it.

James and I continued to undress; we were also very tired. I couldn't believe what had happened. This had to be one of the oddest of days; nights and mornings I had ever had. James turned to me; shook his head and sighed loudly. He was tired; as was I. I struggled to keep my eyes open; as I continued to undress myself. It had been a long, tiring day.

After undressing myself; I climbed into my bed; wearing only my underpants and closed my eyes; trying to get some sleep. After all; it was five o'clock in the morning. Uh-oh! I thought. We're all gonna get woken up at eight! Better place a note on each door, otherwise Nick and Richey will get very; very cranky. Right do it; now! I opened my eyes and clambered out of bed. I switched on my side light and picked up a felt-tip pen and two pieces of scrap paper.

I decided to write on each piece of paper: 'Please; DO NOT disturb. We have had very little sleep; due to unforeseen problems that occurred last night. However; please wake us up at 14.00hrs.' (and on Richey and Nicky's note, I placed: '14.30hrs'.) 'Thank you very much. Love The Manic Street Preachers.' After, writing the notices; I began looking for something to make the notices stick to the doors. Eventually; after much searching, I found some sellotape, and placed the two notices on each of the two doors; which were Richey and Nick's room and mine and James's room.

I slowly re-entered mine and James's room; switched off the side light and looked at my watch; it was quarter past five in the morning. I yawned and placed my watch on top of the mini table. I was very tired and clambered into bed. Richey's right about my weight. I thought. I am starting to pile on the pounds. I mean, I've gained half a stone since Christmas last year; but I'm not surprised. After all; I am a chocoholic! I've really gotta stop stuffing my face with too much junk food!

I closed my eyes; yawned once again and soon fell fast asleep. As soon my eyelids closed; all my problems seemed to drift away from me. I finally felt at ease. Suddenly; I heard James snoring loudly; he was ruining my sleeping patterns. I was not amused in the slightest. James! I thought. I'm trying to sleep! Shut up will you? Please; stop snoring! You're getting on my fucking nerves!

Eventually, I woke up and got out of bed. I looked at my watch on the table; it half past five in the morning! I walked over to the bathroom; opened it and entered it. I, then closed the door behind me and yawned once again. I couldn't help myself from yawning; I was really tired. After yawning; I then walked up to the bath tub and climbed into it. I saw my chance and decided to fall fast asleep into the bath tub; because I was so tired.

As I lay in the bath tub; I heard crying. What's going on? What's happening? Who's crying? I thought to myself. Am I dreaming or am I awake? This is far too confusing! Suddenly; I saw; before my very eyes; Nicky and Richey back to back with rope tied tightly around their ankles. I looked at the two of them and saw that they had been tied together by their wrists and not by their ankles.

"Oh my god!" I gasped. "What has happened to you guys?"

Richey and Nicky turned to face me; each with a look of horror on their face. What was happening? What was going on? I felt very confused and very puzzled. I realised that, not only had they been bound hand and foot; but they had also been gagged! Who did this to you? I thought. I've gotta ask them; who tied them up? I wanna know who did this to them!

"Who did this to you guys?" I asked.
"H'MMM!" screamed Nick.
"Who?" I asked.
"H'MM!" mumbled Richey.
"Hang on," I said, "if I remove the gag from one of you; will you tell me who did this to the two of you? I wanna know who did this."
Nicky and Richey nodded their heads. I knelt down by Richey's side and removed the gag from his mouth. Richey smiled at me. I smiled back. I began untying his ankles.
"So; who did this to you?" I asked.
"James did!" replied Richey.
"Why?" I asked.
"Because; he wants to take over as spokesperson for the band," replied Richey.
"But; but, that's the responsibility of you and Nick!"
"I know! He's trying to stop us from having a voice!"
"H'MMM!" screamed Nick.
"Shh; muffin," said Richey. "You'll be free soon!"
"Yeah," I replied. "Don't worry Nick."
"H'MMM!" screamed Nick.
"Oh; will you shut up?" snapped Richey. "You're getting on my nerves!"
"There," I said, removing the rope around Richey's ankles.
"Thanks man," replied Richey.
"H'MMM!" screamed Nicky; bursting into tears. "H'MMM!"
"Sean; can you do me a favour?" asked Richey.
"Sure," I replied, and began untying Nicky's ankles. "What do you want doing?"
"Take my gag and tie around Nick's mouth!"
"Why? What for?"
"He's getting on my nerves!"
"I think he's upset!"
"I don't care; just do it!"
"H'MM!" screamed Nicky.
"Shut the fuck up!" snapped Richey. "Sean! Do it!"
"Okay," I replied, removing the rope around Nicky's ankles. "Just give me a minute."
"Okay then," said Richey.

I picked up the gag and was about to place it around Nicky's mouth; when all of a sudden; a dark shadow covered me. I began to panic. Who was above me? I began to tremble. I had a feeling I knew who it was. Quick as a flash; I tied the gag around Nick's mouth. Nick struggled and squirmed violently; as I placed the gag around his mouth and tied it tightly and securely.

"That isn't meant for him," said the voice behind me.
"He was making too much noise," I replied; not daring to turn to turn around.
"I don't care! You don't do that Sean!" boomed the voice.
"I'm sorry," I squeaked.
"That's not the point! You disobeyed orders!"
"Leave him alone!" snapped Richey.
"Shut up!" shouted the voice.
"Never!" snarled Richey.
"Okay; I'll let you talk; in return for your lover's tongue."
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"I wasn't talking to you Sean!" boomed the voice. "I was talking to Richard!"
"I think I'd better make like a banana; and split!" I replied.
"No. Stay here!" shouted the voice.
"Can you untie me?" asked Richey.
"Sean; untie him!" boomed the voice.
"Okay," I replied, "but what about Nick?"
"Just untie Richard!"
"You heard the dude; untie me!" snapped Richey.
"Oh boy," I groaned.
"Whatever you do; don't untie Nicholas!" boomed the voice.
"You know; you sound familiar," I replied. "Are you my cousin James?"
"No, but he is now the new voice of this band!"
"Have you untied me yet?" asked Richey.
"There," I replied, removing the rope around Richey's wrists. "You're free!"
"Thanks!" replied Richey, standing up.
"Now, you must say: 'Goodbye!' to your lover!" said the voice.
"What?" spluttered Richey. "My freedom comes at Nick's expense?"
"Yes!" replied the voice. "He must die now!"
"No!" screamed Richey. "You can't! Please! I'm begging you!"
"Shut up!" shouted the voice.

I stood up and stood by Richey's side. Suddenly; the dark shadow disappeared from covering me; to covering the whole of Nick and his body. The mysterious figure had covered their face; so me and Richey couldn't see who it was. I was not amused. Nicky looked around nervously. Tears filled his eyes. Richey looked at Nick and burst into tears. He realised that what he had said was wrong and now Nicky was going to pay the price for his mistake.

Suddenly; James appeared. Nicky hung his head low. James walked up to Nicky; and placed his hands around Nicky's throat. Nicky burst into tears. He knew he was in serious trouble. Richey walked over to Nicky and knelt down by his side. James scowled at Richey. Richey backed off. James pulled Nicky away from me and Richey. The mysterious person vanished; and took with them; Nicky and James. Richey turned to face me; tears rolling down his eyes.

I looked at Richey and shook my head. Richey slowly stood up and walked over to my side. I comforted him. He cried uncontrollably; as I gently stroked his back. He wanted Nicky back in his arms; and not being all alone; like he was now. I sighed loudly. What was I going to do? Why was this happening? Hang on! I thought. This is my dream; I think. Therefore, I can control it! I can make this have a happy ending! But; if this isn't a dream; then I'm well and truly fucked!

"Don't cry Richey," I said. "He'll be all right."
"No he won't!" sobbed Richey. "He's going to die; because of me!"
"Are you sure?"
"Yes! I know he's gonna die!"
"How do you know?"
"Because; he will!"
"Why don't you save him?"
"I can't!"
"Why not?"
"Because; I can't! His life is not in my hands!"
"Then; whose hands is his life in?"
"I don't know!"
"Mine?"
"No!"
"James's?"
"No!"
"Yours?"
"No! Wait! You're right! I'm the one who blundered! I need go and find him!"
"I'll help you find him!"
"Thanks Sean."
"It's okay. Come on! Let's go and get him back!"

Richey slowly stopped crying and removed his hands from my back. I smiled at Richey. Richey smiled back. He gave that look of his. The look that seemed to say: 'I'm gonna get my Nicky back!' I knew that Nicky would be glad to see Richey now. The question was; where was Nicky being held?

Suddenly; a door appeared. Richey and I looked at each other and smiled. We both had a feeling that Nicky was going to be through that door. Richey turned away from me and ran to the door. I slowly followed him to the door. Richey opened the door and saw to his horror; Nicky on the floor, with a long, thin piece of rope around his neck; and James grinning evilly; holding the other end of the rope in his hands. Richey was mortified! What had happened to his beloved Nicky?

"What have you done to my muffin?" demanded Richey.
"Nothing," replied James cruelly.
"He's dead!" I snapped.
"So? Isn't that what you wanted?" sneered James.
"How dare you!" I snapped.
"That's what happens when you tell your lover to shut up!" snarled James.
"How could you?" replied Richey, shedding a tear. "You killed my muffin!"
"He deserved it!" sneered James.
"No he didn't! If anyone deserves to die; it's me! I'm the one who fucked up!" sobbed Richey; bursting into tears. "My poor, darling Nicky! He's gone!"
"Perfect!" snapped James; handing Richey the rope. "Take it. Hang yourself! Join your lover. I'm sure he's waiting for you."
"Where?" sobbed Richey; taking the rope from James. "In Heaven?"
"No!" laughed James wickedly. "In Hell! That's where the two of you belong!"
"You…You piece of worthless crap!" snarled Richey crying.
"Now; now; don't be nasty! Otherwise I can't bring him back," said James.
"What?" gasped Richey.
"Oh yes. I'm full of evil; but killing is wrong," replied James.
"Then, why did you do it?" I asked.
"I didn't," replied James.
"You did!" sobbed Richey; dropping the rope and untying Nicky's wrists.
"Richey; I didn't kill him. Someone else did," replied James.
"I see your conscience has changed you," I said.
"It's not that Sean; it's the fact that I know who did this to him," replied James.
"Who?" replied Richey; untying the rope around Nicky's neck.
"I can't say. I'll be killed if I blab," said James.
"Tell us!" I snapped. "Now!"
"I can't! I just can't! I'm sorry!" replied James.
"If you don't tell; we'll kill you!" Richey and I snarled.
"Listen to me; I need to tell you something," said James.
"Who are you talking to?" I asked. "Me or Richey?"
"Both of you," replied James. "Now; sit down."
"Just let me untie Nick first," said Richey.
"He's already untied," replied James.
"Not properly," said Richey. "He needs his voice back."
"Be very careful," I replied. "Don't hurt him! You do know how sensitive he is."
"I know that!" replied Richey. "Shan't be too long."
"See you," James and I said together.

Richey left with Nicky in his arms. I turned to James and scowled at him. I wanted him to know that I was not only very angry with him; but that Richey was as well. James turned to me and hung his head low. He knew he had done something wrong; and burst into tears. James slowly raised his head as I coughed loudly; to get his attention.

"What possessed you to try and stop him from speaking?" I demanded.
"It's your dream Sean; you tell me," replied James; slowly suppressing his tears.
"You mean; this is a dream!?" I gasped.
"Yes. Did you really think this was reality?"
"Holy crap! You mean..?"
"Oh yes. Nicky is alive and well."
"Then why am I here?"
"You need to speak out more Sean. Don't leave all the talking to them two."
"Okay. I think I get your drift."
"Oh good. Hey Richey! Hey Nicky! Get your butts out here!"
"We're coming," replied Richey and Nicky.
"Where are you two?" I asked.
"We're here! Yo! Seanie boy!" replied Nicky and Richey; entering the room; holding hands and giggling happily. "Hello Sean."
"Hi lads! How's it going?" I asked.
"Fine; how are you?" replied Richey and Nicky.
"I'm all right," I replied. "I just don't understand this dream I'm having."
"Don't worry Sean," smiled Nick. "Just remember what James said."
"Yeah," replied Richey. "Some days; we might not be able to talk for one reason or another."
"Okay then. I'll remember your advice. Thanks lads," I said.
"Take care now," replied James.
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"It's time to get up," replied Richey.
"I don't wanna get up!" I snapped. "I wanna stay in dreamy-dream land."
"You've gotta go!" replied Nicky firmly. "Sorry Sean."
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"Your dream is now over!" replied James.
"What the!?" I gasped.

The next thing I remember, was having cold water being poured all over my long hair. I awoke with a shock and clambered out of the bath; to the sound of laughter. I turned and saw James laughing with a cup of cold water in his hands. I shook my head; and sighed. It was going to be another long day; again.