‘I’m all right. It’s fucking difficult talking to these nonces day after day though. Most of ’em are older than my dad.’

Macca squeezed Vinny’s knee. ‘I know how you feel, pal. I was the same at first. It’s a shock to the system for sure. Just think of the dosh though. You’ve done five shifts this week, that’s a score you’ll be taking home. It’s money for old rope when you think about it.’

Unlike his brothers, who had best mates at school, Vinny was one to keep himself to himself. The lads of his age were so immature in comparison; he couldn’t be bothered with them. He’d had one good mate, but he’d now gone to live in Australia. That’s why meeting Macca had been a godsend. Macca was older, cool, and far more on his level. He’d also given him the opportunity to give his mum something she truly deserved. Decent money, every week.

Macca slipped away as Cecil returned. Cecil put an arm around Vinny’s shoulders. ‘You truly are a beautiful boy, Terry. Shall I order us another bottle of champagne?’

Vinny nodded and smiled. ‘Yes please. That would be lovely, Cecil.’

As the drunken buffoon made his way up the bar, Vinny glanced around at the other lads entertaining. He was one of ten working today. Not all of the clientele were there to chat up the likes of him. Some had lovers they would meet at the club. It was safe, Vinny supposed. No one was going to rat on them here.

There were also half a dozen private rooms at the back end of the club. Ten pound an hour Marnie charged to use those. What went on inside made Vinny feel nauseous, but he was told he didn’t have to go inside the rooms with anybody. Apparently, it was up to the lads who worked there if they chose to, and they could keep any money a client paid them for extras for themselves. Vinny had no intention of ever setting foot in the rooms, no matter what he was offered. Just the thought of it made his stomach turn.

Clocking Macca looking his way, Vinny grinned. Macca actually ran the club for his aunt, which was handy for Vinny as he got a lift to work and a lift home. Glancing at his watch, Vinny forced a smile as his client returned with an ice-bucket. Only another five hours of listening to and talking bollocks and he’d be on his way home with more money in his pocket than he’d ever had in his life.

‘So sorry I’m late, Viv. I bumped into Freddie Angel and he needed a shoulder to cry on. I could hardly say no after all he did for us. He ain’t happy with that Shirley, ya know. Should never have married her.’ Freddie hadn’t had any more gossip regarding Daniel, but Queenie was glad Mary’s boys were doing well for themselves nonetheless.

‘That’s OK. The kids have been as good as gold.’ Vivian’s voice was flat.