Tomorrow the World

Tomorrow the World

Table of Contents

Someone once said life was a wonderful adventure.

As a child I knew poverty and violence, and my only saving was the stories I wove around me, a cocoon in which to hide.

It was never easy, but I would not want to change my life in any way. I owe a great debt of gratitude to the people I knew then, and now, whether they be good or bad; and others, family and friends, who lift my spirits when I’m low, and comfort me when I’m sad.

So many people have touched my life: family and friends; neighbours; readers; professionals who shape and build my career; and so many more. People I hold dear to my heart. Some I will never meet, such as those who write to me from across the world, whose every word I cherish.

My big brother Sonny has been there for as long as I can remember. He was called ‘Sonny’ because as a child he was always smiling. He likes a pint, and he likes to sing, and we love him very much.

God bless you, sweetheart. Get well soon, and we’ll have you dancing in the aisles before you know it.

Part One

1850–1

SECRET LOVE

Chapter One

‘Are you afraid of me?’

‘Never!’

‘Then trust me.’ A charming, confident fellow, Peter Doyle had the mistaken idea that every woman in the world fancied him. ‘The snow’s coming down heavily,’ he told Bridget, ‘you’ll never get through on foot.’ He’d had his eye on Bridget ever since she came to work at Weatherfield Grange. ‘I insist on taking you home.’

‘No thank you, sir.’ Wise beyond her years, Bridget always felt nervous in his presence.

‘You are afraid of me!’ His smile was wonderful, but he had a certain naughty gleam in his eye, and judging from the way he moved his hand inside his trousers, he also had a rising bulge that would not be contained. It was a long time since his wife had shown him any favours. A man had to get his pleasures wherever he could.

As a rule he had no difficulty in persuading even the shyest of creatures into his bed. But Bridget Mulligan was not like the others; at only twenty years of age, she was delightfully fresh and different. It was no wonder he wanted her but, as yet, he had not managed to worm his way into her affections – or her bed, more was the pity! Still, there was time enough yet. He was a patient man.

‘It’s very kind of you, sir,’ Bridget said, ‘but I don’t need to put you to any trouble because a friend of the family is collecting me any minute now.’

‘Really, my dear?’ Suspicious, Peter scrutinised her pretty features.