Later that day, as Charles was clearing up after supper, he overheard his mother on the phone to Francine. “Oh Mu-um.” he groaned to himself, hearing her excitedly suggesting that Michael could benefit from some time watching Charlie work. She went to to suggest that he could also teach Michael to do his make-up, shave his legs and things like that. “Oh god!” he groaned.
Two days later, on the Wednesday, Charles finds himself doing exactly what he didn’t want to do. He’d been up since 5.30am, lacing himself into his corset and applying his make-up, donning his frock and pinny ready to start his chores for the day at 6am. Mike was due at 8am and at precisely 7.55am, as Charlie was clearing the breakfast table, the doorbell rang. No one ever answers the door these days unless Charles is out, so he stops what he’s doing, dries his hands and answers the door.