We were luckier on our third attempt at finding accommodation. The house was clean even though it was on a filthy street, and the landlady was chirpy and friendly and brown-skinned. She introduced herself as Mona.
‘Are you here on holidays? Going to do some sightseeing?’
‘We’re looking for property in the area.’ Dad smiled warmly at her.
‘Moving to London? From Ireland? Now? That’s a brave move.’
Dad said nothing.
‘What a lovely boy you have. What’s your name, sonny?’
‘Steve,’ Dad said before I could answer. She reached forward, and I don’t know if she was going to shake my hand or pat me on the head, but I jerked backwards.
‘Don’t mind him,’ said Dad, ‘he’s at that awkward age. Steve doesn’t like to be touched.’ He winked at her.
‘Oh well, that will change soon enough, won’t it?’ She laughed as I stared up at Dad. Steve?
‘I’ll pay cash up front if that’s all right.’
‘Well, you’re my favourite type of guest. I don’t mind. How many nights?’
‘Two to start with and then we’ll see.’
‘Bed and breakfast, or would you like evening meals as well?’
‘What’s the rate?’ said Dad.
‘Ten pounds per night, my love, twelve if you take dinner too. You won’t find cheaper.’
‘Well, Steve,’ said Dad, ‘will we take dinner as well?’
I nodded.
Dad counted out the notes. ‘I’ll pay for two nights then, please, and I’ll let you know tomorrow if I need to extend our stay.’
‘Great, well, the toilet is down the hall on your left and there’s a shower in your room. You can knock on my door if you need anything. Dinner at seven o’clock, okay?’ She handed over the keys and told us we were free to come and go.
Once inside the room, we saw that there was a bunk bed and a plastic shower cubicle in the corner. I had always wanted to sleep on the top of a bunk bed. ‘Dad! Can I go on top? Please, Dad?’
‘Yes.’ He put his finger to his lips then. We were both silent for a moment and we could hear Mona humming to herself.
Dad lowered his voice. ‘The walls are thin, we’ll have to whisper.’
‘Why?’
‘We don’t want them knowing our business.’
‘Who?’
‘Women,’ he said.
‘Is that why you told her my name was Steve?’
He grinned. ‘I think it suits you. Like Steve Austin. The Six Million Dollar Man. Shall we call you Steve from now on?’
‘Yes!’
‘And what will my name be? I’m bored with Conor Geary.’
