The CBB :: View topic - In the Eye of the Beholder

#1: In the Eye of the Beholder Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Aug 31, 2005 11:24 pm

Okay, have been sitting on this one for ages and have finally finished it, so thought I may as well start posting!

For those who've read A Second Chance, it begins when Evvy is visiting Corney in Boston, a few months after the war, and runs alongside (and occasionally overlaps) the Evvy story for the next three years 'til the posts where Corney & Mike got married.

For those who haven't read A Second Chance, you'll have no idea what I'm on about in that last sentence, but hope you enjoy the story anyway! Laughing

Richard picked up a sp oon, checking quickly that nothing was stuck in his teeth. Then placing it back on the table, he grinned as he caught sight of her walking towards him, a dinner jacket clutched in front of her.

“Better?” he asked with a grin, as she reached him.

Cornelia slid into her seat and handed him his jacket. “I will be once it’s dried.”

Richard glanced down at her feet. “You’ve got tissue stuck to your shoe by the way,” he pointed out, under his breath.

“Oh for god’s sake.” Corney reached down and pulled it off, balling it up and putting it on the table. “Why can’t I do elegant?” she asked, with a roll of her eyes.

Richard laughed. “Well if you will constantly knock glasses of water into your lap!” Cornelia glared at him and he relented. “Anyway, you wouldn’t be you if you were, you’d be some refined society woman like all these other bores. You and Evvy are different. It’s a good thing.” He glanced out across the dancefloor where Evadne was twirling around in someone’s arms, and sighed. “She’s a real beauty, that friend of yours.”

Cornelia caught his wistful expression and grinned. “Yes I know. Bane of my life.”

Richard laughed and turned his attention back to his friend. “I’d go for her myself, but she seems a mite disinterested.”

“Yes, well she’s not exactly in the right frame of mind just now. Anyway, the playboy has never really been her type.”

“Ah well,” he replied, seemingly unperturbed, “you win some, you lose some. Plenty more fish in the sea and all that.”

Corney grimaced. “If you weren’t so charming, you’d be the crudest guy I’d ever met!”

“Yes, well, the Van Alden charm has to count for something, you know.”

Corney laughed and rolled her eyes. “I thought you were with Elisabeth, anyhow? She’s certainly under that impression!”

Richard frowned and turned to stare in the direction of Elisabeth Lowell, his beautiful, well-connected girlfriend, who was busy chatting to another man. “You think so?”

Cornelia followed his gaze and saw her throw her head back with laughter and touch the stranger flirtatiously on the arm. “Oh. Well maybe not then.”

“Yes, maybe not,” Richard replied, with a smile. “I think that one may have run its course now – neither of us have been into it for a while.”

“You’ve only been together two weeks! You met her the same night you met us!”

“Yes, well sometimes two weeks is just too long.”

Cornelia shook her head. “You’re unbelievable! I can’t believe women actually fall for you!”

Richard grinned. “Most ladies I know fall over themselves for a bit of roguish charm!” she said, with a twinkle in his eye.

“That’s rubbish!”

“Really? Then explain to me why I get all the girls, and my elder brother, who is one of the nicest men I know, never gets a look in.”

“Maybe he’s just holding out for the right girl?”

“Or maybe no girl will give him a chance? Believe me, you girls are as shallow as us guys, whatever you may think otherwise. You’re not interested in the intelligent conversation of my kind, considerate brother; you’re interested in the charming, shallow, hard-to-pin-down kind of guy like me!”

Corney shook her head. “Well I’m not, not that you care. And nor’s Evvy, so don’t you even think about it!” she retorted, as she caught him staring at her friend again.

Richard grinned wryly back at her. “I had picked up on that. She’s a beautiful girl though. I find it incredible that she’s alone.”

“There’s a reason, Richard,” she replied more soberly. “Just not one she chooses to share with you.”

“Fair enough,” he replied with a shrug. Then returning his attention to Evadne again, he watched her closely before adding, “Listen, are you two going to the benefit dinner on Friday?”

Cornelia nodded and gave him a smile. “Yes, it’s our last night out before Evvy goes back to Long Island. Why d’you ask?”

“Mike’s going to be there – my brother. He’s been working in Chicago and gets back tomorrow. I’m dragging him along whether he likes it or not.”

“I’m sure he’ll be thrilled.”

Richard grinned. “It’s for his own good. He needs to get out more. He’s always complaining he never meets any girls he likes. I think I may be able to prove him wrong.”

He was still staring at Evadne and Corney gave him a stern glare. “Don’t push things with her, Richard. I mean it.”

“I’m not going to. But I think we should at least all sit at the same table, give them a chance to meet, don’t you? I’ll know the guy in charge – I’ll sort it tomorrow.”

Cornelia looked doubtful and Richard decided to swiftly move the conversation on.

“Has that water dried now?” She nodded. “Excellent, ‘cause we’ve been sat here long enough while my erstwhile supposed-other-half is busy flirting with other men. Come along, Miss Flower. Let’s show her that two can play at that game!”

“You’re not using me like that, Richard van Alden!”

Richard laughed. “Stop being so obstructive, you sourpuss! I’m asking you to dance!”

Last edited by Josie on Thu Dec 15, 2005 5:09 pm; edited 43 times in total

#2: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Wed Aug 31, 2005 11:29 pm

Thanks, Josie - I'm looking forward to hearing Corney's story. It'll be lovely to see her first meeting with Mike.

#3: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Aug 31, 2005 11:36 pm

Ooooooh

Another Jo-quintette drabble

*bounces happily*

Liz

#4: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 2:24 am

Looking good Josie. Look forward to meeting Mike (again).

#5: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 3:48 am

Excellent - lovely to see Corney's story.

Thanks Josie. Laughing

#6: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 7:10 am

Thanks, Josie. You said you'd finished it, didn't you? You'll be able to post loads of it every day, whoohoo. I've always had a soft spot for Corney.

#7: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 7:21 am

It's looking great already. Can't wait to see how it's all going to pan out - other than what we already know of course!

#8: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 7:54 am

Hurrah and huzzah another quintette drabble (at this rate you'll have them all on the go at once.. Wink

) Thanks Jo Very Happy

Last edited by Ally on Thu Sep 01, 2005 9:13 am; edited 1 time in total

#9: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 9:09 am

ooh yay, have been looking forward to this muchly.

Thanks Jo Very Happy

#10: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 10:34 am

*joins in the cheers*

Thanks Jo Very Happy

#11: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 11:44 am

*adds to the cheers*

Wonderful! its great to see this and I look forward to the rest. Thank you Jo.

#12: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 11:58 am

Yay! Don't get your hopes up, Richard van Alden. Corney and Evvy are much too sensible to fall for your chat up lines!

#13: Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 6:41 pm

Excellent - another Evvy-world drabble! Looking forward to seeing this one develop, Jo. Smile

#14: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 7:19 pm

yay More quintette
Looking forward to very regular Wink

posting!

#15: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 8:02 pm

Hauling his suitcase onto a trolley, Michael van Alden made his way off the platform and into the station concourse. It was the second time in a matter of months that he had walked across these same tiles. Last time had been when he arrived back in Boston on the train from New York, still in his army uniform, fresh from the boat back from Europe. Then he had been greeted with a hero’s welcome, his family and friends waiting on the concourse with banners and flags, welcoming him home with open arms.

Now, there was just him and his bag. He smiled to himself as he glanced at the few people milling about, waiting to collect their loved ones. It was funny how quickly things changed, how easily people forgot.

And he was one of the lucky ones. Not only had he come back unscathed, save for a small shrapnel wound in his right thigh, but he had been able to go straight back to work. His old firm in Boston had kept his job open for him while he had been away. So many men had come home to find themselves with nothing. From hero to zero in a matter of weeks. The country had gone about its business without them, celebrated their homecoming, and then gone back to its business again, forgetting what these young men had gone through. It was a return to reality that none of them had expected.

It seemed so long ago now, though it was only a matter of months since V.E. Day. He still had the nightmares, though. He supposed that they would never go away. He had seen and done things that he never thought he would have to, things he scarcely wanted to believe, and he didn’t think he could ever share the memories with anyone. How could they possibly understand?

But at least he had his life back. There were so many men who had nothing, and nobody seemed to want to know.

As he emerged into the open air, he sighed and held out his hand to hail the nearest cab. The driver pulled up to the kerb, taking his bag and loading it into the boot as Mike climbed into the back seat.

“Where to?” the driver asked as he climbed behind the wheel again.

“Mount Vernon Street, Beacon Hill, please.”

As the car pulled away from the kerb, Mike smiled and sat back in his seat. It was good to be home.

Last edited by Josie on Thu Sep 01, 2005 8:51 pm; edited 1 time in total

#16: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 8:49 pm

Awww, nice to see Mike again. Laughing

#17: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 10:25 pm

Yay! Another Josie drabble! How on earth do you have time for them all, Jo?

ETA: Doing what to the dentist? Shocked

#18: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 10:46 pm

Thanks, Josie. It's nice to see Mike return and his thoughts on the end of the War.

#19: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 11:47 pm

Thanks Jo - good to see Mike arriving safely home

*hugs him for the nightmares though*

Liz

#20: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 7:02 am

I'm glad Mike is relatively unscathed.

ETA:But what about Corney?

#21: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 7:24 am

Thanks Jo - its great that Mike got his job back, it's obvious that he deserves it.

Um, Ann, do you really need to be told that it basically means to be afraid of the dentist. Surely Jo and co's legendary attitude of 'anything is fine as long as I can escape a dentist trip' is still quite fresh in your mind! *shakes head* Where have you let your mind run to? - Don't answer that!

#22: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 9:38 am

Ann wrote:

ETA: Doing what to the dentist? Shocked

ETA Forgot to say thanks Josie! I'm enjoying this

Last edited by Mia on Fri Sep 02, 2005 9:40 am; edited 1 time in total

#23: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 9:39 am

Thank you Jo. Great to see Mike again!

*lol at Ann*

#24: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 10:03 am

The taxi pulled up outside the tall, red-brick townhouse in Mount Vernon Street, and Mike climbed out, handing some money over to the driver in return for his bag. Then hauling it up the front steps, he pulled out his keys, unlocked the door and stepped into his entrance hall.

The first thing he noticed was the mess. A coat was on the floor underneath the coat stand, an umbrella tossed on top of it, and glancing through into the front room, he could see newspapers scattered all over the floor. Putting his bag down, he made his way through to the kitchen to grab a glass of water, only to find dirty dishes all over the countertops, and washing up in the sink. Heaving a sigh, he took a glass out of the cupboard, filled it and went to collect his bag and make his way upstairs. As he passed one of the spare bedrooms, he glanced in through the open door and saw clothes strewn all over the carpet. Clearly he had a houseguest. It didn’t take a genius to work out who.

Walking into his bedroom, he threw his bag down on the bed and stared out of the window at his small backyard. Sometimes it felt strange being home. Though he’d never miss the war itself, everyday life seemed so mundane in comparison. Still, mundane was not always a bad thing. He knew he could do a lot worse than the everyday trials and tribulations of work, family and romance. Not that there was any of the latter on the horizon for him at the moment. No doubt his mother would have some girls lined up to introduce him to, but he was really not interested in any of that. He knew one day he’d meet the right girl for him. He just hoped it would be one day soon.

“So how was Chicago then? Get all your business done? Pick up any nice dames along the way?”

Mike started at the unexpected voice, and turned to see his brother standing in the doorway. Richard smiled, walked across to the bed and made himself comfortable, stretching out his legs, his arms behind his head, looking up at his brother with a nonchalant grin.

Mike grimaced. “I was wondering when you’d show your face. So what happened this time? Been booted out of halls again?”

“You malign me!” Richard returned, not looking in the slightest bit put out. “I decided to leave of my own volition this time. The room I was allocated wasn’t up to my standards, so I’m waiting for a new one. In the meantime, I decided to come and grace you with my presence – I know you get so lonely on your own.”

“What’s wrong with Mom and Pop’s?”

“You’re joking, right?”

“You're right, I guess that wouldn’t be the best arrangement if you wish to live,” Mike replied with a grin, and sat down on the window seat. “So how’ve you been, little brother?”

“Fine and dandy as ever. Mother informed me yesterday that I’m even more of a disappointment to her than she originally thought, so things are going well!” Mike laughed and shook his head, and his brother grinned back at him, seemingly unperturbed at his mother’s view of him. “Anyway, you didn’t answer my question.”

“Which question’s that?”

“Did you pick up any dames?”

“They’re women, Rich, not dames,” Mike replied, sounding exasperated.

Richard shrugged. “That’s a moot point. What I wanted to know, is did you meet anyone nice?”

Mike sighed and shook his head. “Richard, I was in Chicago to work, not play. You’ll understand one day when you get a proper job and stop being a professional bum.”

“I’ll thank you to remember that I am not a bum. I’m studying for a profession at our nation’s most prestigious house of learning.”

“You’re only at Harvard because Pop threatened to cut you off if you didn’t do something useful with your life rather than running off to Hollywood.”

Richard grinned. “I’d have made a fine actor, I have cheekbones to die for. Anyway, stop turning the conversation onto me. Did you, or did you not, meet anyone in Chicago?”

“No, I didn’t. Happy?”

“Of course I’m not happy! Believe it or not, I want to see you meet the right girl, regardless of my own nefarious romances and whatever I may say or do.”

Mike smiled. “I know, I’m sorry. As for Chicago, I wasn’t exactly looking. There’s no point in starting anything with someone who lives hundreds of miles away, now is there?”

“There’s such a thing as a letter!”

“I know that, but that’s not the point. I want to be able to wine and dine her and look after her properly.”

Richard shook his head. “Too damn chivalrous, that’s your problem.”

Mike shrugged. “Maybe. Or perhaps I’m just waiting for the right girl to come along.”

“Well if you don’t get a move on, you’ll be well past your prime when she does!”

“Gee thanks! I’m not that old!” Then sobering, Mike continued, “She’s out there somewhere, I know she is.”

Richard watched him closely in silence for a few seconds, then grinned. “Well I have some terrific news. I do believe I’ve found her!”

Mike rolled his eyes. “Don’t you start! Mom fixing me up is bad enough.”

“Yes, but I have better taste than our mother.”

“Anyone has better taste than our mother!”

Richard laughed. “Listen, I really think you’ll like Evvy. She’s beautiful, witty, intelligent and more importantly, she can’t stand idiots like me.” Mike chuckled and Richard added, “She and her friend Corney are going to this benefit thing on Friday. I’ve booked us both tickets and we’ll be sat at their table.”

“And what if I don’t want to go?”

“Come on – just give her a chance, you never know. You’ve nothing to lose.”

Mike considered for a minute, then said, “Okay I’ll come, but on one condition.”

“Name it.”

“You clear up your mess from around my house – right now!”

“Consider it done,” and getting to his feet, he swiftly left the room.

Mike watched him go, and then lying down on the bed in his place, he stared at the ceiling, smiling and shaking his head.

Last edited by Josie on Sun Sep 04, 2005 12:00 am; edited 2 times in total

#25: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 10:09 am

love the exchange there! And Mike doesnt know what's coming to him. Thanks Josie

#26: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 10:10 am

Thanks, Josie. I'm glad the brothers do get on well with each other.

#27: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 10:26 am

great chat, thanks Jo.
Poor Mike - I do feel a bit sorry for him!

#28: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 11:26 am

Thanks Jo. Wonderful exchange between the brothers there. Am looking forward to Richard's reacton when its Corney Mike falls for not Evvy!

#29: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 11:29 am

Fab, thanks Jo! Very Happy

#30: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 12:43 pm

Another lovely long post, thanks Josie.

#31: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 1:03 pm

Lovely Jo

How nice of Richard set Mike up with Evvy

Liz

#32: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 3:55 pm

Josie wrote:

Richard grinned. “I’d have made a fine actor, I have cheekbones to die for."

Thanks Jo!

#33: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 4:07 pm

Thank you Jo *bounces*

*wonders politely how long she should wait before asking for more*

#34: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 7:32 pm

“If you hate it that much, you can leave as soon as dinner is over. But you have to stick it out ‘til then.”

Mike grimaced at his brother as they walked up the steps at the front of the hotel. “Yes sir! When did you get so bossy?”

“Not bossy, just telling it as it is,” Richard replied as they walked into the lobby.

He turned back from his brother and looked around him, and at that moment, Cornelia emerged from the ladies cloakroom, a piece of tissue stuck to her shoe again. Richard grinned as he saw her, and then as they walked over to join her, he nodded towards her feet. Confused, Corney looked down. Then seeing what he meant, she bent and pulled it from her shoe with a roll of her eyes.

“Sometimes I think it would just be easier if attached it to my shoe before I left home, and be done with it!”

Richard laughed. “Well it would save you some time. No water yet, I see.”

She grimaced. “Just give me an hour or so!” Then noticing that Richard had someone else with him, she turned to Mike and said, “So, you must be the famous Mike then?”

“Well I’m not so sure about the famous, but my name’s Mike,” he replied, turning red for no apparent reason.

Cornelia grinned. “Richard’s told me a lot about you. I’m Corney.” She held out her hand to shake his, and realised she was still holding the tissue. “Oh darn it”

Looking around, she threw it into the nearest vase. Mike watched her, amazed, and Richard grinned.

“You do realise that’s probably worth a fortune?”

Cornelia shrugged. “Rats to that! What did they make them for if not to put things in?” Then turning back to Mike, “Let’s try again. Hello, I’m Corney. Generally I come minus the extra accessories though.”

“No, you generally come with them!” Richard put in.

She grimaced at him and Mike laughed. “Well it’s a pleasure to meet you, with or without them.”

“Pleased to meet you too,” she replied, shaking his proffered hand.

Richard looked around him. “So where’s Evvy?”

“Ah yes, the one you’re really interested in,” Corney retorted, looking from one to the other, and embarrassed, Mike cringed at her words. “Don’t worry, I’m quite used to it,” she said with a grin. “She’s already at the table, surrounded by admirers as usual! Come on, let’s go interrupt,” and turning on her heel, she walked off in the direction of the ballroom.

Richard turned to face Mike. “Now, let’s see if we can manage not to run out of conversation or say the wrong thing, shall we?”

Mike glared back at him and rolled his eyes. “Don’t start, Rich. It’s not my fault that most of the women I’ve met don’t interest me,” he said with a frown. “They’ve about as much substance as jello. As long as this Evvy has some spirit about her and something decent to say, I won’t have a problem. If she’s anything like her friend Corney, I should be fine.”

Richard grinned. “She’s something, isn’t she? Zany as you like. She’ll be a handful and a half for the poor guy who marries her, that’s for sure. She’s great company though. We’ve had a blast over the past few weeks. But don’t worry, Evvy’s just as much fun, just less scatty and more sophisticated than Corney is, and she’s just stunning.”

“But Corney’s…”

“Come on,” Richard interrupted, ignoring him, and taking him by the arm, he towed him towards the ballroom as he caught sight of Cornelia gesturing for them. “I think we’re wanted.”

Last edited by Josie on Sun Sep 04, 2005 12:03 am; edited 2 times in total

#35: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 7:37 pm

Ah Richard Listen! You really don't know your brother do you! *shakes head*

That was great, thanks Josie

#36: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 7:40 pm

Hehehehe, think Mike's already smitten! Laughing

Thanks Josie, lovely relationship between Mike and Richard.

#37: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 7:48 pm

Wot she said ^^^^^

Thanks Jo Very Happy

Liz

#38: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 7:58 pm

Hehehe tres tres shiny Jo thank you.

#39: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 10:31 pm

Thanks, Josie. I look forward to seeing Evvy and Mike meeting. I also enjoyed seeing Mike and Corney's first meeting.

#40: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 4:23 am

Excellent! Very Happy

#41: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 10:25 am

Great, it's clear the Richard doesn't know Evvy either.

#42: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 2:45 pm

Wheyhey, I've found this at last! Have been waiting for it since it was mentioned in "A Second Chance".

Richard obviously doesn't know his brother, does he? Or he'd have seen that he likes Corney rather a lot already!

#43: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 4:29 pm

Thank you Josie! Corney is fabity in this Very Happy

#44: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 4:39 pm

Hehehe! How typical of Corney to make a first impression like that! Thanks Jo!

#45: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Sep 04, 2005 1:40 pm

As they approached the table, Mike caught sight of a slender, elegant girl, with fair, curling locks and pretty, delicate features. She was talking animatedly to Cornelia, who was waving her arms around in the air. Richard was right, Evadne was stunning, but for some reason it was not her who caught his eye.

Corney looked up as they approached, and Mike at grinned at her. She returned his smile, and then poked Evadne’s shoulder.

“Evvy, see who’s here! This is Richard’s brother, Mike,” she introduced, flinging her arm out as she did so, and knocking a glass of champagne over the girl next to her. “Say, I’m sorry!” she exclaimed as the girl shrieked and jumped out of her chair.

“You stupid, clumsy…”

At that point, Richard stepped in to calm the girl, who was a friend of his, and Mike picked up the glass and got her fresh one in its place. Before long, Richard had smoothed things over, Cornelia had agreed to cover any cleaning costs, and the girl had run off to the bathroom to dry herself down.

Corney turned to Richard with a sheepish grin. “Thanks, you saved my bacon there. I think I better go sit down before I cause any more damage. I’ll see you in a little while,” she added to Mike and Evadne, and then made her way around the table to her seat. Richard followed in her wake, chuckling as he went, and before long, the two of them were in sitting together, Richard clearly ribbing Corney about what she had just done.

Evadne turned to speak to Mike, and saw him staring across the table towards his brother and her friend.

“So you’ve met Corney, I see?” she asked with a grin.

Recalled to his senses, Mike nodded and gave her a smile. “When we first arrived, outside in the lobby. She was walking around with tissue stuck to her shoe!”

Evadne laughed. “That sounds just about right. She’s fabulous, you know, even if she is a little harebrained at times!”

Mike glanced back at Corney, who now had her compact mirror open at the table, pulling strange faces into it as she checked her make-up was all still intact.

“Harebrained is good.”

Evadne gave him a curious glance. “Yes, it is,” she said slowly, a little light beginning to dawn in her mind. “So how is it you’ve not been out with us ‘til now then?”

Mike turned his full attention back to her. “I’ve been in Chicago working for the past couple of months – I just got home yesterday.”

“And then you find yourself dragged out to some benefit and set up with a girl you don’t even know?”

Mike went bright red and grimaced. “Not exactly subtle, my brother, is he?”

Evadne laughed. “Well no, not exactly. Still, sometimes it’s best to just humour them, don’t you think?”

“You mean this was Corney’s idea as well?” he asked in surprise.

“Well she knew about it, I’m fairly sure, though she didn’t mention it to me,” Evadne replied. “I’ve a suspicion she participated under duress. I’m not exactly in the market for a date just at the moment and she well knows it.”

For a fleeting second, a sad look flashed across her face and Mike caught it before she had time to correct it. Evadne took his frown to be at what she had just said.

“Sorry, no offence meant. Tact isn’t a big thing with me,” she apologised hurriedly.

Mike grinned. “None taken. I’m used to being turned down by now!”

“I didn’t mean it like that!” Evvy responded, turning bright red.

“I know, don’t worry, I’m only kidding!”

Evadne pulled a face and shook her head. “Perhaps I should add gullible to the list after tactless.”

Mike chuckled and then catching sight of his brother again, his grin turned to a frown. “So is there anything between Richard and Corney?” he asked, watching them as they sat with their heads together, deep in animated conversation.

Evvy looked up and laughed. “Heavens, no! They get on well and enjoy ribbing each other, but that’s all there is to it. Richard couldn’t cope with Corney for a million dollars – he’s far too much of a wimp! I’m not sure he’s ever met anyone quite like her though, he seems fascinated!”

Mike smiled. “No, neither have I.”

As he continued to gaze across the table, Evadne watched him, her brain ticking over. Richard had got the looks in his family, there was no doubt about that, but when Mike smiled, he somehow seemed far more handsome than his brother.

Glancing round, Mike caught her watching him and blushed, knowing that she must have seen him staring at her friend. He turned his attention back to her again, and the pair of them soon fell into easy conversation, as the champagne was poured and the hors d’oeuvres appeared

After about twenty minutes, Mike excused himself to go to the bathroom, and when he returned, he found another man sitting in his seat chatting to Evadne.

She looked up as he approached and mouthed, “Sorry,” at him, grimacing as her new companion droned on.

Seeing Mike, the man went to stand up and move, but Mike stopped him with a smile and a shake of his head. “It’s fine, really. I’ll catch up with you later, Evvy.”

She nodded, and he picked up his drink and walked around the table to sit down in the other man’s seat. As the starters arrived, he made pleasant smalltalk with the women either side of him, but his eyes rarely left Cornelia and his brother. He was entirely unaware that Evadne was watching him across the table, now absolutely convinced that her instinct had been right.

When the starters were finished and the waiters were clearing away the plates, Richard said something to Cornelia, got to his feet and wandered off. Seizing the opportunity, Mike quickly excused himself and went to take his brother’s place. Evadne grinned to herself and turned her attention back to her companion again.

Last edited by Josie on Sun Sep 04, 2005 3:07 pm; edited 3 times in total

#46: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sun Sep 04, 2005 1:47 pm

Thanks, Josie. I'm glad that Mike is smitten with Corney already.

#47: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Sep 04, 2005 2:48 pm

Lovely Josie. I'm sitting on the edge of my chair waiting to see what happens next. It's lovely that Evvy is in on the whole thing right from the start.

#48: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Sep 04, 2005 3:34 pm

Poor Evvy, she has a long time to go until she finds happiness again - but LOVE her instincts about Corney and Mike!

Thanks Josie.

#49: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sun Sep 04, 2005 5:20 pm

YAY! How shiny! I'm glad Evvy has these instinctual feelings, that way it will be nice and simple for Mike and Corney to get together... yes??

#50: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 12:48 am

Oooooh new Josie-drabble

*echoing aitchemelle*

....but I rather think Corney's going to miss the point of Mike's attentions - unlike Evvy who's got it spot on!

#51: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 2:33 am

I don't know; I go away for three days and find lots of a lovely new drabble to catch up with!

Brilliant Josie...but why do I feel that this just may not be that simple? Very Happy

#52: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 7:31 am

Thanks Jo

Looking forward to seeing how Corney and Mike get on

Liz

#53: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 9:28 am

Aw, how lovely

Thanks Jo Very Happy

#54: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 9:46 am

Fantastic, thanks Jo. Very Happy

#55: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 8:18 pm

As Mike sat down next to her, Cornelia turned to him with a smile. “And what brings you here?”

“Chivalry, I’m afraid,” Mike replied, returning her smile. “I thought you may need saving from my brother’s charming commentary!”

Cornelia grinned. “He’s not all that bad. Well okay, maybe he is,” she agreed, as he raised an eyebrow, “but I like him all the same.”

Mike laughed. “I know – it’s that smile, it helps him get away with murder!”

“Well you’ve got the same smile,” she responded curiously, “does it work for you too?”

“It’s been known to once or twice,” he replied with a wink.

Corney laughed and then nodded her head in Evadne’s direction. “Say, I’m sorry about the whole fix-up with Evvy. I did try to tell him it wasn’t a good idea.”

Mike shook his head. “Not a problem. Evvy and I have agreed to be friends. Anyhow, I think it’s my brother who has the crush on her, not me,” he added, watching Richard hanging over the back of Evadne’s chair as he talked to her. “So tell me, where do you hail from then?” he asked, turning his attention back to Cornelia. “Why is it I’ve never met you before now?”

Corney smiled. “We’re from Vermont originally, though Poppa and I have actually been in Europe for most of my life,” she replied. “We only moved to Boston a few months ago, when we came back after the war.”

“And how do you like it?”

She grinned. “I like it fine now I’ve met some people. Despite your brother’s dubious charms, he's actually been a godsend. He’s introduced me to quite a few folk these past few weeks. I knew no-one before.”

Mike rolled his eyes in mock despair. “Yes, he’s quite the social butterfly, my brother.”

There was silence as he watched her closely for a few moments, and Cornelia found herself blushing slightly, with no idea why.

Mike noticed and grinned. “So, why don’t you tell me more about yourself?” he suggested, nodding to the waiter to fill up their glasses of champagne. “I like to know who I’m talking to, after all, make sure they’re not a freak!”

Cornelia laughed and found herself relaxing again. “Well what you see is what you get, pretty much.”

He smiled back. “Somehow I find that hard to believe.”

Feeling herself going red again, she tried hard to fight off her blushes. “Okay, how ‘bout we do a deal?” she said briskly, trying to regain control of the conversation. “For every fact I tell you about myself, you have to tell me one back about you.”

Mike laughed. “You sure you want to know?”

“Well if I can cope with hearing all about your brother’s dealings for the past three weeks, then I think I can cope with hearing about yours!”

“Maybe I have a hidden side?”

She grinned. “Well then you’ll just have to divulge it, won’t you? Right you go first.”

Last edited by Josie on Mon Sep 05, 2005 10:34 pm; edited 1 time in total

#56: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 8:28 pm

Awwww, how lovely. So good to see the beginning of their relationship.

Thanks Jo.

#57: Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 8:28 pm

Love Corney in this drabble. She is well able for Mike. Looking forward to more

#58: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 8:29 pm

Love the way they get on with each other - having fun and teasing a little already. Thanks Josie

#59: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 9:18 pm

Thanks, Josie. Corney and Mike really seem to be made for each other.

#60: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 10:28 pm

Thanks, Josie. I always liked Corney in the books but she didn't quite come alive in the way she is doing here. Of course Mike was just a mere husband in EBDs eyes and never merited more than a mention. I never even thought about what he would be like till you started writing about him. Now, as you know, I regard your Mike as canon.

#61: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 10:46 pm

"Oh no you don’t, it was my idea!" Mike replied indignantly. "And anyway, I’m a gentleman, so ladies first!"

Cornelia laughed. "Okay, I’ll go with that just this once. Let me think." She paused for a moment wracking her brain for an idea, and then suddenly a wide grin spread across her face. "I was once kidnapped and carried off into a cave by a madman," she said blithely, and sat back to await his reaction.

Mike opened his eyes wide and whistled. "Well that’s some opener!"

She smiled complacently. "I like to make an impression."

"Well you’ve certainly done that! Go on, you can’t leave me dangling by a thread, you have to expand."

Cornelia grinned and did as he asked, and Mike listened open-mouthed. Then he sat back, not quite sure what to say.

"Come on then, it’s your go," Corney prompted. "You have to equal that."

Mike grimaced. "I’m not entirely sure I can. I did once set the school gymnasium alight by accident. Will that do?"

She burst out laughing. "However did you manage that?"

"Rogue bonfire, long story," he grinned. "I’ll tell you all about it some other day, if we stay friends. Right, over to you again."

Corney screwed her face up in thought. "I once tried one of Poppa’s cigars when I was a kid."

"Hey, what d’you know? I did that too! Got a good switching for my troubles while I was at it.”

"That makes two of us!" Cornelia laughed, as she sat back and took a sip of her drink. She liked this man, with his easygoing manner and dazzling smile. He was funny and charming, and he seemed interested in what she had to say. She smiled to herself. It seemed like she might enjoy tonight.

Their conversation continued in the same tit-for-tat manner, gradually growing deeper as they started to share more about their lives. As the waiter cleared the main course plates away and brought around the dessert, Mike sat back and listened as she talked about Austria, thinking that he had never felt so comfortable with anyone in his life. He liked how lovingly she spoke of her father, of their evident closeness, noticed how intently she listened as he talked about his job and his family, was impressed at her fierce loyalty and how much she seemed to care about her friends. Before the meal was over, he felt as if he had known her forever.

By now, Richard had managed to manoeuvre himself next to Evadne and glancing over, seeing the flirtatious way his brother was leaning into Evvy as they chatted, a frown furrowed Mike’s brow. Something wasn’t quite right there with Evvy, she didn’t quite look comfortable, and Richard seemed oblivious. Taking another sip of her champagne, Cornelia caught Mike staring across the table and gave him a sympathetic smile.

"So are you disappointed it didn’t work out with Evvy tonight?"

Turning back to her, Mike smiled and shook his head. "Not in the least. She seems a lovely girl, but I’m not sure she’s really my type."

Cornelia pulled a disbelieving face. "Rot, she’s everyone’s type!"

Mike shrugged. "Not mine, I’m afraid. As I said, she’s a lovely girl, but when it comes to it, she just wouldn’t be for me, and vice versa I’ve no doubt."

She frowned at him. "What’s your type then?"

Mike didn’t reply. Instead he gazed at her intently, mesmerised by her bright blue eyes, and Cornelia stared back at him, thoroughly confused. "What?"

He smiled and shook his head. "Nothing, just ignore me."

Corney shrugged. "Sure, if you say so! She’s not really into the whole dating scene just now, anyhow," she added, returning the conversation to Evadne again.

"It’s fine, don’t worry. I picked up that something was wrong, unlike my dear brother over there," he replied, glancing at Richard again.

Cornelia was surprised. "You’re perceptive!"

"She just seemed a little sad, that’s all,” he replied. Cornelia went to respond and then suddenly hesitated. Mike noticed and gave her a smile. "You don’t have to tell me why if you don’t want to."

Corney thought about it for a few seconds. "You mustn’t let on to her that I told you," she said finally, making up her mind.

Mike shook his head. "Of course not."

"Okay, well," she began, taking a deep breath, "her fiancé died a couple of years back - he was shot down over Africa somewhere. Evvy was working over in England at the time and she only just got home a few weeks ago. I think with getting back to Long Island and Ralph not being there, she’s only really taking it in now. I reckon she could shut it out more when she was over there. She’s putting on a brave face right now, but deep down she’s real sad."

There was silence for a moment and then Mike shook his head, his eyes full of sympathy. "Oh no, that’s awful, poor Evvy. You’d never know."

Cornelia nodded sadly. "I think that’s the idea, to convince everyone she’s fine." She swallowed hard. "It broke her heart into tiny pieces though. She’s not said as much to me, but I’ve known her so long I can just tell." She looked so sad for a fleeting moment, that Mike reached out and squeezed her arm. She gave him a smile. "Anyhow, now you know," she finished, forcing a cheery note into her voice.

"Yes, now I know." Mike gazed intently at her as she picked up her glass to take a sip. She may not have Evadne’s looks, but with her full, delicate mouth and huge, soft, shining blue eyes, he thought she was every bit as beautiful in her own way.

As she took a sip of champagne and glanced around the room, Mike cleared his throat. He needed to change the subject, and now seemed as good a time as any.

"Corney?” She turned back to look at him with a smile, and he took a deep breath to steel himself. “Do you reckon I could take you out to dinner sometime?"

Last edited by Josie on Mon Sep 05, 2005 11:52 pm; edited 1 time in total

#62: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 11:47 pm

Trust Corney not to see what's going on, though she better say yes to that dinner invite!

Thanks Josie.

#63: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 12:26 am

Awwww - lovely thanks Jo Very Happy

Liz

#64: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 1:30 am

Oh, they are just both so lovely and caring!

#65: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 7:32 am

That was just lovely Thanks Josie. And poor Corny, being so concerned about Evvy and having her mind so firmly fixed on the fact that Evvy was supposed to be his date that she didnt see what was happening.

#66: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 8:02 am

They are so lovely together, vair luffly, thank you Jo Very Happy

#67: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 9:08 am

cue Corney being very surprised and knocking another wine glass over...

thanks jo - great to see them at the start of their relationship Very Happy

#68: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 11:36 am

Aww, they're just great together! I hope it's not going to take them thirty years or so to get engaged like it did Evvy and Edgar...

#69: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 11:49 am

Thanks, Josie.

*say, "yes", Corney!*

#70: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 12:29 pm

awww Josie your Quintette universe is so wonderful. They're all really, well, real.

Thanks for the lovely update - I really hope Corney will acept the invite.

#71: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 12:46 pm

Ann wrote:

Aww, they're just great together! I hope it's not going to take them thirty years or so to get engaged like it did Evvy and Edgar...

Well that was EBD's fault!

But if it happens again at least that means loads of loverly drabble Very Happy

Liz

#72: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 1:54 pm

Thanks, Josie. I'm glad Mike has asked Corney out to dinner - I really hope she says yes.

#73: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 3:13 pm

Wonderful, Josie!

Mike may even be good enough for her. Very Happy

#74: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 6:36 pm

Really lovely Jo, looking forward to Corney's reaction to that question! Laughing

#75: Author: joelle, Location: lancashire, england

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 6:52 pm

awww this is sooo sweet. following it intently. thank you.

#76: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 7:58 pm

Taken completely by surprise, Cornelia spluttered into her glass of champagne, sending the contents down the front of her red dress. Grabbing a napkin from the table, she began to mop her front as Mike stammered an apology, taking the glass from her hand and setting it back on the table.

Just then, Richard appeared at his brother’s shoulder, swaying slightly under the influence of too much champagne. "You really need to learn how to drink properly, Corney," he teased with a wide grin.

Cornelia ignored him, wiping champagne from her throat and chin, as Mike stared at her, perplexed by her reaction. Oblivious as ever, Richard leant over his brother’s shoulder, nodded towards Evadne and asked, "You strike out again?"

Mike glared at him. "Go away, Richard."

Richard grinned. "Sorry, didn't mean to offend! You still in one piece talking to this one?" he added, with a wink in Corney’s direction. “Surprised she's not thrown champagne on you too!”

Cornelia grimaced. "Rub it in, why don’t you?" she muttered back, and then excusing herself, she got to her feet and hurried off to the bathroom to finish wiping down her dress.

The room was empty when she got there, and grabbing one of the hand towels, she wet it, gently sponging the drink from the silk material, wondering as she did so why she was even bothering. It was only going to stain anyway. Deciding to give it up as a bad job, she lay the towel down on the edge of the sink and stared at herself in the mirror.

Had he really just asked her to dinner? She couldn’t quite believe it. Of all the women in the room, he had chosen to ask her, Corney? It didn’t seem real, it never happened like that. She was so used to being the joker - the girl that all the men got along with and then told her that they wanted to date her friends. She grinned widely at her reflection as it began to sink in, and then pinched herself, just to check that it really was true.

"Ow!" she cried, as she pinched her arm a little harder than she had meant to.

"Are you okay?"

Cornelia hadn’t heard the door open, and she jumped at the sound of her friend’s voice. Evadne looked her up and down, taking in the marks on the front of her dress.

"What happened to you?"

"Spilt champagne down my front," Corney replied, grimacing as Evadne chuckled. "How’s your evening going? Enjoying yourself?"

Evvy nodded and smiled. "I’m a little tired though, that’s why I came to find you. Would you mind if we head off?"

"Of course not. I just have to do one thing first, it won’t take a minute."

"I'm sure I can wait," Evadne grinned. ‘"I'll get our coats and go say goodbye to the boys. Meet you back at the table," and good as her word, she turned and walked back out the door.

Cornelia took one last look in the mirror, and then followed her friend out of the room. Crossing the lobby to the reception desk, she asked for a pen and paper, scribbled something down, and then returned to the ballroom. Mike was chatting to Evadne, saying his goodbyes, and with a smile, Corney made her way towards them.

Before she reached them, Richard accosted her along the way. "Corney, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to offend you."

She looked up at him, puzzled, and then smiled as she realised what he meant. "You didn’t, don’t worry," she reassured him, seeing the anxious expression on his face. "It takes more than a fatuous comment from you to get my goat!"

Richard grinned back at her, relieved. "Glad to hear it. Are you and Evvy leaving?"

Cornelia nodded. "Yes, we’re a little tired, and I think this thing’s run its course. I’ll see you soon, okay?" she added, as he bent to kiss her on the cheek. "Make sure you say goodbye to Evvy too – she goes home the day after tomorrow," and leaving him to do as she suggested, she continued on her way over to Mike.

He was sitting in his seat, feeling a little despondent. He had been so sure she would say yes, sure that she had felt the same connection that he had himself. But instead she had run off and not come back, and now he was convinced that he’d blown it, that she wasn’t interested, that he’d read the signals all wrong. He heaved a sigh and sat back in his chair. It wasn’t the first time he had been turned down by a girl, but somehow this time it stung that little bit more.

Seeing her approaching him, he dragged himself out of his reverie and gave her a smile.

"You heading off too?"

Cornelia nodded. "Evvy wants to get home. Thanks Mike, it’s been a pleasure meeting you. I’ve had a really good night."

"So’ve I." He gazed up at her for a second, before adding, "Listen I'm sorry about..."

Before he could finish, he became aware of her pressing something into his hand.

"Hopefully I’ll see you soon," she said with a meaningful smile, and then turned on her heel and followed Evadne out into the lobby.

Mike watched them go, and then glanced down at the piece of paper in his hand. Written on it, in an untidy scrawl, were a phone number and address, and the words ‘Thank you. Dinner would be swell.’

A warm feeling spread throughout his body as he read her reply, and folding the piece of paper, he put it in his pocket, a wide smile lighting up his face.

Richard appeared at his shoulder again. "What've you got there?"

"None of your business. What are you up to now?"

"We're going on to another party. You want to join us?"

Mike shook his head. "Thanks all the same, but I think I'll just head home."

"You’re hopeless, you know," his brother replied in mock exasperation. "You’ll never meet anyone if you don’t come out." Mike stared up at him, and then got to his feet, brushing his jacket down and shaking his head. "You should listen to me you know," Richard added, "I know what I’m talking about!"

Mike stared at him for a second, and then patted him on the shoulder, the wide grin still plastered on his face. "You what, little brother, I think I’ll do just fine."

Last edited by Josie on Tue Sep 06, 2005 8:35 pm; edited 4 times in total

#77: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 8:14 pm

Oh Poor Corny. But all the same that was fantabulous! Loved Mike's last comment to his brother. Thanks Josie

#78: Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 9:20 pm

Thank you, Josie!

#79: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 9:44 pm

Hope Mark rubs it in well and truely to Richard in the many years to come! Laughing

Lovely Jo, wonderful reaction.

#80: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 10:46 pm

Hurrah she said yes *bounces*

Thanks Jo

Liz

#81: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 11:05 pm

Thanks, Josie. I'm really glad Corney said yes and in such a lovely way as well.

#82: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 6:33 am

Hurrah! You had me worried there for a moment or two!

#83: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 9:26 am

me too! Looking forward to their date.
Thanks Jo Smile

#84: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 10:24 am

That was brilliant - they all came very alive in my mind! Thanks, Josie!

#85: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 6:45 pm

YAY!

Just as lovely the second time around!! Twisted Evil

Thank you Josie!

#86: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 6:58 pm

It was not until she stepped outside and into the fresh air, that Corney realised quite how much she had had to drink. The cold, October night hit her like a tonne of bricks, and feeling distinctly light-headed, she clung onto the railings at the top of the steps.

“Corney, what…are you okay?”

Evadne came running back up the steps towards her friend, a worried look on her face, and Cornelia gave her a sheepish grin.

“I, er…” she began conspiratorially, leaning into Evadne and glancing around her. “I think I may be a little drunk!”

Evadne laughed as she linked her arm through that of her friend. “Here, keep a hold on the railing and I’ll help you down the steps. I was wondering when it would hit you!”

“I didn’t have all that much!” Cornelia retorted as she almost lost her footing.

Evvy, who had seen the waiters topping up Cornelia’s glass several times when she wasn’t looking, just grinned back at her, and helped her down the last few steps and into the taxi.

The twenty minute drive home passed with Cornelia giggling to herself and reliving her conversation with Mike, while Evadne listened on amused. It was obvious to her that Corney was deeply interested in this man, though Cornelia was sober enough to withhold the information about being asked out on a date. That was a secret she wanted to keep to herself, at least for tonight.

When they arrived back at the Flowers' house, Corney headed straight upstairs to bed, as the giddy, light-headed feeling she had had when they left the hotel was beginning to turn to drowsiness. Shutting her bedroom door behind her, she threw herself down on the bed, face-down and closed her eyes. She felt she could happily have just gone to sleep there and then, but realising she should at least change into her nightclothes, she finally hauled herself up and pulled her nightdress out from underneath her pillow.

Kicking off her shoes, she wriggled out of her dress, tearing one of the seams slightly as she pulled it over her head without undoing the hook and eye. Then throwing it onto the nearest chair, she unhooked her stockings and began to peel them off. Balancing on one leg, she rolled the nylon down to her foot, and was just tugging it off from the toe when she suddenly overbalanced, and landed face-down on the floor with a shriek.

Giggling to herself, she rolled onto her back and put her legs in the air, somehow managing to pull both her stockings off, though not without some difficulty, and then holding onto the end of the bed, she pulled herself back onto her feet. She grabbed her nightdress from the bed, putting it on back-to-front, and then made her way through to the en-suite bathroom, still chuckling as she went. Taking her toothbrush out of its holder, she quickly brushed her teeth, and then made a token effort at washing off her make-up, sticking her head under the cold tap to rinse off the soap. When she lifted her head again, the room seemed to spin for a second and she grabbed the edge of the taps, staring in the mirror until everything came back into focus. Then making her way back into her room, she pulled back the covers and climbed into bed.

She was just sliding down between the sheets when there was a knock at the door, and Evadne came into the room, holding a glass of water.

“Thought this may come in handy,” she said with a smile, walking around the bed and placing it on the bedside table. Then staring down at her Cornelia, she grinned at the make-up that was still smeared around her eyes. “Nice job taking your make-up off!”

Cornelia grinned. “I’ll finish it in the morning – it won’t hurt to wait awhile! You off to bed?”

Evadne nodded and bent to kiss her friend on the cheek. “Think I may fall over where I’m standing if I don’t. You sure you’re okay?”

“Positive. ‘Night, Evvy. Thanks for my water.”

“You’re welcome. See you tomorrow,” and walking back around the bed, Evadne went to leave the room.

“Evvy?”

She stopped in her tracks as Cornelia called her. “Yes?”

“Mike’s a nice man!”

Evadne smiled. “Yes, I know.”

Corney grinned back at her. “Goodnight!” and then turning over and switching off the light, she snuggled down under her covers again as Evadne laughed and headed off to her own bed.

Curling up on her side, Cornelia’s thoughts were still on Mike. He wanted to see her again. She still couldn’t believe it, couldn’t believe that he was actually interested in her. He was so nice and kind and funny. Men like that rarely looked at her twice. He was so handsome too. He had the sort of soft, sensitive eyes and warm smile that made her feel oddly safe and at home. And he was so witty and intelligent and he didn’t seem to care about tissue stuck to her shoe, drinks spilt down her front, her hair being a little out of place. Somehow she knew she could be herself with him, not have to put on any airs and graces, and he wouldn’t mind a bit. He would still be there, still be interested in what she had to say. She had never met a man who’d paid her that sort of attention before. She smiled to herself again and snuggled further into her pillow. And now he was going to ask her out for dinner. She couldn’t wait.

Last edited by Josie on Wed Sep 07, 2005 7:32 pm; edited 1 time in total

#87: Author: joelle, Location: lancashire, england

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 7:28 pm

Awww thats so lovely! it reminds me of some nights ive had. the characters are so realistic, thank you. i cant wait for more

Last edited by joelle on Wed Sep 07, 2005 7:34 pm; edited 1 time in total

#88: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 7:30 pm

When they arrived back at the van Aldens’ house, Corney headed straight upstairs to bed, as the giddy, light-headed feeling she had had when they left the hotel was beginning to turn to drowsiness.

Why is Corney already at Mike's?

#89: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 7:33 pm

Chelsea wrote:

Thanks Chelsea Embarassed

Have changed.

*sacks beta readers!*

#90: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 8:00 pm

Lovely,
hope nothing goes wrong

#91: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 8:48 pm

Thanks Josie - that was a wonderful piortrayal of being drunk! Wink

Lovely Corney - sad she's never found someone like that before - but pleased she has now.

#92: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 8:56 pm

Thanks, Josie. I'm glad Corney had such a great evening, Evvy was a great help to her and Corney can't stop thinking of Mike.

#93: Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 9:00 pm

Thanks, Josie!

#94: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 9:01 pm

If it wasn't for the fact that I know I've never described to you the problems of getting nylons off when drunk, I'd have thought you were quoting me! It was so realistic.

It's so lovely that Corney realises that Mike is special and right for her.

*wanders off in a sentimental mood*

#95: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 10:02 pm

Jo, your Corney and Mike are just SO lovely!!!

#96: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 10:28 pm

I adore your drunk Corney - she's hysterical! Did that particular episode involve research, Jo? Or merely a very good imagination? Laughing

#97: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Sep 07, 2005 11:10 pm

Thanks Jo

Liz

#98: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 12:25 am

Superb....love Corney at that drunk, but still just-about rational stage!

And she recognises how special Milke is!

Heaves great sigh of contentment!

#99: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 8:16 am

*begs for more drunk Corney* That was brilliant, Jo!

#100: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 9:08 am

so accurate - writing from experience, Jo?!? Wink

thanks

#101: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 2:27 pm

Brilliant post, and a very funny Corney! Glad she realises what a special guy Mike is!

#102: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 8:48 pm

The following morning, Mike was sitting at his kitchen table, sipping a cup of coffee and reading his newspaper when the kitchen door opened and Richard entered the room, looking rather bleary-eyed. He staggered across to the stove, pouring himself a cup of coffee from the pot, and then as he sat down at the table, Mike looked up at him, eyebrow raised.

“Good night last night?”

Richard grimaced, as if the sound of his brother’s voice was just too much for his head to bear. “I’m never drinking scotch again.”

Mike laughed. “Don’t let Pop hear you say that, you’ll be disinherited!”

Despite his hangover, Richard grinned. “Let’s face it, it was going to happen one day anyway!”

“True enough,” Mike replied jokingly, as he turned a page. “So, how was last night then?”

“We went on to another party somewhere in Cambridge – no idea where. I do remember, that Elisabeth and I are no longer an item, however.”

“Who’s Elisabeth?”

“You know – Elisabeth Lowell, tall, blonde, talks as if she has a plum in her mouth.”

“Did I actually meet her?” Mike asked, sounding doubtful.

Richard stopped to think for a moment, the effort clearly hurting his throbbing head. “No, I don’t think you ever did, now I come to think of it. I only met her a couple of weeks ago.”

Mike rolled his eyes. “So what happened?”

“Nothing fearfully exciting. We both decided things had run their course, and I met someone else last night.”

“Who?”

“Isobel Saltonstall.”

Mike grinned. “Surely not little Isobel whose pigtails you used to pull in the schoolyard?”

Richard nodded. “The very same!”

“Is she not a little young for you?”

She’s only five years younger than me,” Richard replied, utterly unabashed. “She’s nineteen now, believe it or not, and quite a beauty if I do say so myself.”

“Well I give it a couple of months, tops,” Mike replied, turning his attention back to his paper.

“Oh my cynical brother, what am I to do with you?” Richard retorted shaking his head. Then taking a sip of his coffee, he lounged back in his chair and fixed Mike with a critical eye. “Anyhow, enough about me. What about you last night? You took off rather rapidly – what happened? Any news?”

Mike’s cheeks flushed slightly pink and lowering his paper again, he lifted his cup and grinned into his coffee. “As a matter of fact, you were right for once. I met a very nice girl last night, one I’ll most definitely be seeing again.”

“You really liked Evvy?” Richard exclaimed with interest, sitting up straighter in this chair. “Well aren’t you the dark horse! And there was me thinking you’d blown it when you hardly spoke to her all night.”

Mike shook his head. “You’re a little off the mark, I’m afraid. Lovely as Evvy was, she and I will only ever be friends.”

Richard looked puzzled. “Well who else can it be? It know it can’t be either of the girls you sat next to during the first course, for Sylvia’s married, and Gretchen’s the biggest bore known to man. Who else did you talk to?” He screwed up his face in thought, trying hard to remember the previous evening. “I’m pretty sure I only saw you with Corney.”

Mike’s cheeks grew a deeper shade of pink, as he stared his brother straight in the face, a slight smile touching the edge of his lips. Richard’s eyes opened wide and he was suddenly very alert.

“Corney?” Mike’s grin grew wider and he nodded his head. Richard stared at him in disbelief. He appeared to be in shock. “You like Corney? You have to be kidding me?”

Mike’s smile instantly turned to a frown. “That’s a particularly tasteless comment, even by your standards,” he replied coldly.

Thoroughly flustered, Richard continued digging himself a hole. “I didn’t mean it in that way,” he replied indignantly. “I’m very fond of her, you know I am. But really Mike, how could you pick Corney over Evvy, for pete’s sake? Evvy’s sophisticated, elegant and beautiful. Corney’s scatty, clumsy and well…not so beautiful.” Mike raised his eyebrows and Richard shook his head in disbelief. “Oh come on, you can’t tell me you think she is. I know she’s not ugly, but compared to Evvy…”

Mike put his paper down on the table, set his cup firmly on top of it and sat back in his seat again, glaring across at his brother, his arms folded across his chest. He wore a look of anger on his face like Richard had rarely seen before.

“Okay little brother, let’s get a few things straight. Firstly, Evvy has absolutely no interest in a relationship right now. I’m going to tell you this for your own good, so you will hopefully leave the poor girl alone, but you’re to repeat this to no-one, least of all Evvy herself. Her fiancé died during the war and she is still devastated at his loss. What she needs right now isn’t some idiot sniffing around trying to be her suitor or fix her up on dates, but rather for people to be her friends.”

He paused for a second to let this sink in, and Richard swallowed hard, mortified to hear of Evvy’s loss. Mike noticed, and generally his compassion would have taken over at this point, but for once he was frankly too angry to care. Besides, his brother had far spent too long swanning through life, getting away with things because of his charming smile and effusive manner. It was about time he began to grow up.

Mike cleared his throat and continued.

“Even if that were not the case, Evvy and I are not interested in each other in that way. I’ve no doubt we’ll be friends, but nothing more.

As for Corney, I happen to like that she’s scatty and not in the least embarrassed about it, that she doesn’t have an ounce of pretension in her body, and that yes, she’s clumsy and unsophisticated, because it’s all part of who she is. She is also funny and charming and gutsy, and has the biggest heart of anyone I have ever met. Sitting there talking to her last night, I felt as if I’d known her my entire life, and when she left, all I could think of was getting to know her more.

And as for not being attractive, she has a smile that melts my heart and the most beautiful eyes I’ve ever seen in my life. And anyhow, physical beauty isn’t everything - that’s something you’ll learn one day, when you grow up. Most beauty comes from within. It’s what really makes Evvy a beautiful girl, not the obvious looks that you see, and in my mind, it puts Corney streets ahead of the competition.

So in answer to your questions, yes, I do like Corney, no, I’m not kidding and yes, I would pick her over Evvy. Just now, I'd pick her over any other girl in the world.”

As his brother finally finished speaking, Richard remained stock still in his chair, gaping at him open-mouthed. Ignoring him, Mike got to his feet, set his cup down in the sink, and marched out of the door, leaving Richard staring after him, still trying to wrap his hungover mind around what he had just heard.

Last edited by Josie on Thu Sep 08, 2005 8:56 pm; edited 1 time in total

#103: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 8:54 pm

Hurrah for Mike and his valiant defence of Corney

Rolling Eyes

at Richard, and I hope it sunk in!

Thank you Jo, as shiny as ever Very Happy

#104: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 8:56 pm

Thanks, Josie. Well said, Mike! Everything that he said is so true.

#105: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 10:07 pm

Shiny Josie Thank you!! Very Happy

#106: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 10:18 pm

Yay that told him!

Thanks Jo

Liz

#107: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Thu Sep 08, 2005 10:54 pm

Ha! I really like your Mike - he certainly told Richard what for there (which was very very necessary IMHO).

#108: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 3:30 am

Go, Mike!

#109: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 4:23 am

Yes, Mike, that told him!! About time your brother just grew up! Very Happy

#110: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 8:57 am

aw gorgeous.
Feeling all warm and fuzzy
Thanks jo Very Happy

#111: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 9:40 am

Evadne tossed the cushion she was holding to one side and then grinned across at her friend. “You know you can’t just leave it there!” she exclaimed excitedly. “I need to know all the details. When did he ask you?”

Despite her still throbbing headache and slightly nauseous stomach, a wide smile crossed Cornelia’s face as she looked back at her. “When we were at the table, not long after we’d eaten,” she replied, the colour deepening in her pale cheeks as she spoke. “We were talking about…something else, and then he just came out with it out of the blue. It’s what made me spill champagne down my front – I was so surprised!”

Evadne laughed. “I can’t believe you didn’t see it coming!”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Cornelia retorted indignantly. “Why would I have seen it coming?”

“Corney, it was so obvious!” Evvy responded, still chuckling. “I could tell right from the start that he liked you. You’re so oblivious when it comes to that stuff.”

“That’s ‘cause nobody’s ever interested in me,” Corney replied, pulling a face at her friend. “You’ve heaps of practice at it, that’s why you can tell better than me!”

Evadne laughed again and shook her head. “So am I right to assume you said ‘yes’?”

Cornelia grinned, her cheeks turning an even deeper shade of pink. “I actually said ‘Dinner would be swell’! I wrote it on a piece of paper with my number and gave it to him as we left. I didn’t even see his reaction. I hope he read it,” she added, her grin turning to a frown.

“Of course he read it!” Evadne sounded incredulous. “What d’you think he’d do otherwise?”

“Be nice to me, I’m feeling fragile!” Corney pouted, realising how ridiculous her comment had been. Suddenly she chuckled to herself. “Richard’ll be disappointed – he was hoping for you to be Mike’s dream girl.” Then with a quick rethink, she added, “Actually, maybe he won’t. Mike reckons it’s Richard who really wants to date you, he just knew he didn’t stand a chance!”

Evadne laughed. “Sadly I think Mike may have it right!” she replied with a slight grimace. “Richard doesn’t seem to take no for an answer – short of telling him the real reason I’m not out for a date, there was nothing else I could say!”

Cornelia gave her friend a sheepish glance. “Say, Evvy, I hope you don’t mind, but I told Mike about what happened. He asked why you looked a little sad.”

Evvy stared at her for a moment and then shook her head. “S’okay, I don’t mind him knowing. He’d have found out soon enough anyhow, I’d imagine, if he’s taking you out on a date.”

A brief silence followed, as Cornelia mulled something over in her mind. “So how d’you feel about going home tomorrow?” she asked hesitantly, her voice full of concern.

Evadne stared at her fingers for a moment, picking at a snag on one of her nails, and then heaved a huge sigh and shook her head. “In all honesty, I really don’t know. A little scared, I guess, about how I’m gonna cope.”

Corney watched her for a second, and then getting up from her seat on the sofa, she walked across to her friend’s armchair, sitting down on the arm and giving Evadne a hug.

“You just make sure you call or come see me whenever you need me, okay? Deal?”

Evvy smiled and squeezed her friend’s arm. “Deal.”

“Good. Now,” Corney added, a wicked grin on her face, “how ‘bout you go fetch me some coffee and cookies.”

“How ‘bout you fetch them yourself!” Evadne retorted. “I’m the guest here, remember?”

“But I’m sick!” Cornelia replied in a whinging voice. “You wouldn’t want me to get sicker would you?”

“How is you walking to the kitchen and filling the coffee pot gonna make you sicker?”

“Just ‘cause!”

“I’ll show you just ‘cause!” and turning slightly in her seat, Evadne gave her friend a gentle shove, sending her tumbling off the arm of the chair with a wild shriek.

“You mean!” As Evvy dissolved into laughter, Cornelia got to her feet and glared at her. “That wasn’t fair!”

“Serves you right! Now go on, go make the coffee!” Evvy replied, with another peal of laughter.

“You’re never coming here to stay again, Evvy Lannis, you hear me?” Corney muttered loudly, as she stalked out of the door.

Last edited by Josie on Fri Sep 09, 2005 12:24 pm; edited 1 time in total

#112: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 9:57 am

Thanks, Josie. There is such a lovely friendship between Corney and Evvy.

#113: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 2:59 pm

Thanks Jo!
Evvy and Corney are luffly, and so is Mike!

#114: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 4:46 pm

Thanks Jo

Liz

#115: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 5:52 pm

Only true friends can behave like that! Lovely, Jo!

#116: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 6:27 pm

hehe - very realistic! you have Corney down to a 'T'

Thanks Jo

#117: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 7:09 pm

Awww that was so 'right' - love the conversation between Mike and Richard - think Richard is very lucky he didn't get a punch on the nose from Mike! And your portrayal of Evvy and Corney is just wonderful.

Thanks Josie. Kiss

#118: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 2:36 pm

Holding the box of donuts in one hand, Richard tentatively opened the door of his brother’s workshop, and stuck his head into the room. Catching the movement out of the corner of his eye, Mike laid down his hammer and turned his attention away from the bench that he was building.

“You should have gone into furniture designing, not stockbroking,” Richard said in an overly cheerful voice, admiring his brother’s handiwork.

Mike glared at back at him. “What do you want, Richard?”

“Peace offering,” Richard responded, holding out the box of donuts, a hopeful smile fixed on his face.

“I think I’d prefer an apology rather than donuts, if it’s all the same to you,” came the stony reply, as Mike picked his hammer up again and turned back to his work.

“Yes, well I come bearing that too,” and walking across to the far side, Richard sat himself down in one of his brother’s chairs.

He looked around him for a few seconds, taking in all the different bits and pieces of woodwork around the workshop. Then, glancing at his brother, he realised that Mike was staring at him, eyebrows raised.

“What?”

“The apology?”

“Oh yes, that! Sorry.”

“That’s it?” came the incredulous reply.

Richard grimaced and shook his head. “Well no, not exactly. I’m just not sure what to say - you know I don’t do apologies well.”

“Why don’t you give it a try?” Mike retorted, sardonically. “You never know – it may even become a habit. Stranger things have happened.”

Richard opened his mouth to deliver a stinging rebuke, but then thought better of it, and took a deep breath instead.

“I didn’t mean to be rude about her, Mike. That wasn’t how I meant it at all. Surely you know I’m fond of her?”

“That doesn’t excuse what you said,” Mike responded, his voice still hard and cold.

For once, Richard had the grace to look ashamed of himself. “I know. I guess I was in shock, that’s all.”

“Because you can’t understand why I’m interested in Corney when you’re not?”

“Well yes…” Richard began hesitantly.

“We’re different people, Rich,” Mike interrupted incredulously. “Surely you’ve figured that out by now?”

“I know that!” There was an awkward silence for a few moments, and then Richard continued, “The thing is, I’ve thought about it and now I can see it.”

“See what?”

“You and Corney. Why it would work.” Mike stared back at him, saying nothing, and Richard tried again to get his point across. “I mean, it makes sense, I guess.”

“You guess it does, or it does?”

“It does,” Richard replied decisively. “At least, it will, once you’re together. You know what I mean.” He paused for a second. “It’ll just take some getting used to, that’s all.”

Mike raised an eyebrow. “What exactly is there for you to get used to, Richard?”

“Well, you know…”

“No, I don’t know.”

“Well you being together – with Corney…”

“I still don’t see why you have to get used to anything,” Mike stated impatiently. “I like her, I will ask her out to dinner when I get back from Greenwich, and hopefully things’ll progress from there. I’ll have to wait and see. But in all honesty, what happens or doesn’t happen is none of your business! I am twenty-nine years old and I can date whomever I choose. Obviously I would prefer it if you don’t have a problem with her, but at the end of the day, it really doesn’t make that much difference what you say – I’ll still date her.”

“I know.”

“Well then I’ll thank you to just keep your views to yourself! You don’t hear me passing judgement on every girl you step out with, so perhaps you’d extend me the same courtesy?”

Richard stared down at his feet, looking thoroughly apologetic. “I will. I’m sorry. I really am fond of her, you know,” he added, with a slight smile, “even is she is a little crazy!”

Mike rolled his eyes, and then his face broke into his familiar smile. “I know you are. And I accept your apology – just don’t do it again. Now,” he said, holding out his hand, “how about you hand over those donuts before I change my mind!”

==

It was Wednesday by the time Mike returned from visiting a couple of his clients in Greenwich, and once he had arrived home and unpacked his bags, the first thing he did was try and call Cornelia.

Sadly, his attempts were in vain. In her haste to scribble down her phone number, she had somehow managed to write it down wrong, and after the third time of apologising to an increasingly disgruntled old woman on the other end of the line, Mike finally gave up and decided to drive out to her home instead.

It took him a little while to find the road in Brookline, where Cornelia and her father lived. Her handwriting wasn’t the greatest and he spent a good hour driving around trying to find Tampledown Avenue, before he finally located the Templeton Avenue that he actually wanted.

Pulling up in the gravel forecourt of number 1204, he turned off the engine, climbed out of the car, and walked across to the front door, slight butterflies fluttering in his stomach at the thought of seeing her again. Taking a deep breath, he reached out his hand, and pulled the cord attached to the large, brass doorbell. There was no reply. He might have known it – Cornelia and her father were not in. No matter, he thought to himself, he’d just wait in the car until they returned.

Two hours later, he was still sitting in the same place, there was still no sign of them, and he was starting to get cold. He needed to go home and get some rest, but he didn’t want to leave without seeing her. He sat back, a frown clouding his face. What was he supposed to do now? Then suddenly, an idea struck him, and reaching into the glove compartment, he pulled out a pad and pen, tore off a sheet of paper and began to scribble out a note.

Dear Corney,

It’s Mike van Alden here – I hope you remember me from the benefit last week? I’ve been trying to get a hold of you all day, to no avail, so apologies for the note but it’s my last resort.

I would still very much like to take you out on that dinner date we talked of - if you would still like to come, that is. I hope that’s the case.

Are you by any chance free this coming Saturday afternoon and evening? If not, please contact me on the telephone number or address below. Otherwise, if I don’t hear from you, I will be by to collect you at 3pm on Saturday afternoon. Wear something nice, and bring a warm coat and scarf to wrap up in!

Yours hopefully, and with fond regards,

Mike.

Scribbling his number and address down at the bottom of the page, he folded the piece of paper over twice. Then driving out of the forecourt, he pulled over in front of the mailbox, tucked the note inside, and then climbed back into the car and headed home.

#119: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 2:48 pm

Awww - that's just great. How like Corny though! Why do I get the feeling I'll be saying that many times over by the time you reach the end of this? I'm glad that Mike had another way to get hold of her. Thanks Josie

#120: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 3:35 pm

Thanks Jo

Luverly Mike Very Happy

Liz

#121: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 3:35 pm

Let's hope Corney reads the note! Rolling Eyes

As for Richard - he was lucky Mike didn't punch him!

Thanks Josie.

#122: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 7:17 pm

I really hope Corney managed to write her address down correctly...

#123: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 8:16 pm

ooooh Josie! More please!!

#124: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 9:21 pm

Quote:

I really hope Corney managed to write her address down correctly...

That had crossed my mind, too, Ann!

Thanks Josie Smile

#125: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 10:08 pm

And mine!

It would be so like Corney though to have messed that up to.....

#126: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 10:31 pm

Thanks, Josie. I'm glad Richard and Mike have made up and Mike has gone to such lengths to try and get in touch with Corney. I hope Corney gets in touch soon.

#127: Author: Liss, Location: Harrow, London

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 11:37 pm

Helen P wrote:

Quote:

I really hope Corney managed to write her address down correctly...

That had crossed my mind, too, Ann!

Mine too! Oh, the possible misunderstandings... Shocked

#128: Author: Guest,

Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 11:46 pm

Mike is a Star!!
Please don't let Corney have forgotten where she lives....

#129: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 12:01 am

Sorry, that was me...forgot I need to log in each time at the moment. Embarassed

#130: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 12:24 am

The address being wrong was the first thing I thought too. Hopefully we're all wrong though, or she has very friendly neighbours to bring it round!

Thanks Josie.

#131: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 11:18 am

Very shiny Jo! May we have some more soon please?

Very Happy

#132: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 7:30 pm

By Friday lunchtime, Cornelia had still heard nothing from Mike, and she was beginning to feel increasingly despondent. She had thought that he was different, that he really was interested in her, but clearly her instincts had been wrong. Sitting on the window seat in the salon, staring out at the rain as it teemed down the glass panes and soaked the garden, she told herself that there must be a reason why this kept on happening to her. Maybe Maud, the cheerless woman who had kept house for them in Ireland, was right after all. Maybe she just wasn’t the type of girl that a man wanted for a wife. Tucking her legs up under her, she curled herself up on the big cushions and leant her forehead against the glass. Perhaps she should just get used to the fact that she was going to end up alone after all. She heard the door to the salon open as her father came into the room, but didn’t bother looking around. She wasn’t sure she was in the mood to talk to anyone just now.

Joe Flower watched his daughter for a few moments, noting her sad expression as she continued to stare out of the window. Then weaving his way between the furniture, he crossed the room and sat down next to her, his eyes still on her face.

“What’s eating you?”

Cornelia glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, and then turned her attention back to the garden. “Nothing, I’m fine.”

“Well you don’t look so fine to me. Come on, Corney, tell your old Pop what’s wrong. You never know, I may be able to help.”

Corney looked at him askance, and then shifting position so that she was facing towards him, she poured out the tale about meeting Mike, her hurt that he hadn’t called, and her fear that maybe Maud had been right after all.

“I don’t understand it, Poppa. What’s wrong with me?”

“There’s nothing wrong with you whatsoever,” Joe replied firmly, angry that anyone could make his daughter feel that way. “Corney, I know I’m a little biased, but any man who can’t see what you’re worth and how wonderful you are, doesn’t deserve you. Maud was a bitter, sour-faced old nag who couldn’t find her own husband and didn’t want anyone else to have one either.”

Cornelia shook her head and stared down at her hands, twisting her fingers together. “It not just her. No-one ever likes me, Poppa, not in that way. I thought Mike was different but he’s just the same as all the rest. I guess that when the champagne wore off he realised he’d made a mistake. It wouldn’t be the first time.”

Mr. Flower reached out and squeezed his daughter’s arm. She was his pride and joy, the only love in his life for so long, and he hated seeing her this upset. “If he’s worth you, then he’ll get in touch,” he replied gently. Then as he gave her a smile, he suddenly started to cough.

Cornelia stared at him, alarmed as his chest heaved. “How long have you had this?” she demanded as, forgetting her woes, she jumped up and went to grab a blanket from the sofa. “Here, come over here, sit on the couch.”

“Corney, I’m fine!” her father protested, as he stopped coughing and mopped his streaming eyes with his handkerchief. “Do stop fussing, it’s just a little cough, that’s all.”

“I don’t care!” Cornelia exclaimed, taking hold of his arm and pulling him to his feet. “This is our first winter back here and I’m not having you take any chances. I’ve almost lost you once, I’m not letting you get that bad again – not if I can help it. Now you’ll do as I tell you,” she ordered as her father rolled his eyes, acquiescing to her wishes all the same. “Go get into bed and I’ll bring you some soup and bread. I’ll come eat my lunch with you up there,” and with one hand on his back, she steered him out of the salon as he began to cough again.

Last edited by Josie on Mon Sep 12, 2005 8:03 pm; edited 3 times in total

#133: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 7:36 pm

Thanks, Josie. I hope Mike will find a way - any way at all! - to get in touch with Corney soon or they bump into each other.

#134: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 7:41 pm

Maud

Poor Corney Crying or Very sad

Thanks Jo

Liz

#135: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 8:29 pm

Oh heck. I hope he's alright, and that Mike manages a meeting with her at somepoint soon. *hugs Corny*

#136: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 10:06 pm

Oh dear I just know Corney wrote down the wrong address, or the note is hidden under a whole heap of other things! *hugs Corney anyway*

Thanks Jo Very Happy

#137: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 10:49 pm

Maud like a right sourpuss! poke

Maud.

((Corney))

And I do hope the Joe's going to be ok. You're not going to start killing anyone off yet are you, Jo?

#138: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 12:41 am

Oh dear! Please let Joe be ok - and although we know Corney gets her happy ending, this is a Bit Worrying!

#139: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 7:28 am

I'm sure I've poked Maud before (she has been mentioned elsewhere, hasn't she?) but I'm not adverse to poking her some more.

* poke

Maud and

for good measure*

#140: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 9:58 am

Thank you Jo. Just caught up on loads and you've got Corney spot on down to all the misunderstandings and everything!

#141: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 2:20 pm

Ann wrote:

I'm sure I've poked Maud before (she has been mentioned elsewhere, hasn't she?)

Yes, Corney talked about her in A Second Chance. Didn't think anyone would remember that!!! Laughing

Mr. Flower had just settled himself in his bed, several pillows supporting his back, when Cornelia appeared, carrying a tray that was laden down with soup, bread and what looked like a mountain of post. She crossed the room, pulling up the small table that fitted around the bed, and then placed the tray down in front of him.

Joe eyed the pile of letters with a twinkle in his eye. “Corney, when did you last clear out the mailbox?”

“Wednesday morning,” she replied briskly, her cheeks going red, and she busied herself trying to plump up his pillows a little more. “I’ve been busy since and I…er…forgot. Anyhow,” she added defensively, “you could have cleared it yourself, you know!”

“Yes I know, I’m only kidding! Careful!” he cried, as she pushed another pillow behind his back and he shot forward, knocking the tray and spilling some soup over the edge of his bowl. “You’ll have me planting my face in the bowl if you carry on like that!”

“Sorry,” Corney muttered sheepishly, as she straightened the pillows up properly and then stood up straight. “I’m just going to fetch my own tray. You read your mail and I’ll be back in a minute,” and leaving him to obey her orders, she disappeared out of the door.

She returned a few minutes later, bearing another tray laden with soup, glasses and a huge jug of juice.

“Watch out, you’re gonna spill it!” Joe cried, as she tipped the tray precariously and the contents slid to one side.

“No I won’t, it’s fine,” she retorted, proving her point by just making it to the dresser in time. “See?” Then picking up one of the glasses, she poured him a drink and walked over to place it down in front of him, helping herself to some of his bread in return. “Anything interesting?”

Joe looked up from the letter he was studying, and gave her a smile. “Work letters mostly,” he replied, picking a folded piece of paper off his tray and holding it out towards her. “This may be of interest to you though.”

Frowning, Cornelia reached out and took it from his hand. “What is it?”

“Why don’t you take a look and see?” he replied, his eyes twinkling. “By the way, there’s no name on the front so I opened it and read the first few words before I realised it was for you. Sorry about that.”

Cornelia shook her head to indicate that she didn’t mind, and then sat down on a stool by the dresser, curiously unfolding the note. Her eyes scanned the words that were written on the paper, and as they moved down the page, they began to shine more and more. She read the note through several more times, and then folded it up and looked across at her father, a wide grin lighting up her face. Her father watched her, a smile touching his lips.

“I gather he came?”

Corney nodded, her eyes still shining with happiness. “He still wants to see me!” she replied excitedly, opening the note and glancing at the words again. “He’s asked me to dinner on Saturday. Say,” her face fell, as realisation set in, “that’s tomorrow! But I’ve no time to prepare! What’ll I wear? I don’t have anything…”

“Well why don’t you go get something new this afternoon - put it on my account.”

“But I’m no good at picking out clothes, Poppa, and Evvy’s not here to help me and I don’t have any girlfriends in Boston I can ask either,” she answered, sounding panicked.

Joe chuckled and shook his head. “Corney, what were you wearing the night you met him?”

“My red dress - the one that got ruined.”

“And did you pick it out yourself?” She nodded, confused and distracted. “Then what’s the problem? You can evidently pick clothes okay, you don’t need Evvy’s help. Stop worrying yourself about it and concentrate on looking forward to the date instead. Now, don’t you think you should call and tell him you accept? He mightn’t think you want to go otherwise.”

Cornelia shook her head. “He says to telephone him if there’s a problem, otherwise he’ll be here at three tomorrow afternoon,” she replied scanning the note again.”

Her father grinned. “Well there you go then,” he stated, picking up his s***n and taking a mouthful of soup. “Say, this is delicious, sweetheart, you’ve outdone yourself!”

She returned his smile, his comment recalling her to the present. “Thanks, Poppa. You feeling a little better now?”

Joe nodded. “Much. I’m just a little tired and have a small cold, that’s all. Don’t you go worrying about me, okay? Concentrate on enjoying yourself tomorrow. It’s about time you had a little fun - you’ve been far too tied up with me over the past few years.” He paused and placed his s***n back in his bowl. “I am sorry, you know,” he added, glancing across at her as she folded the note again and laid it on the dresser. “I think I’ve taken the best of your girlhood away.”

There was silence for a moment as Cornelia stared at him in amazement. Then she slowly shook her head. “No you didn’t – you took nothing away from me. I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else.” Joe smiled back at her, his heart warmed by her words. Embarrassed by her uncharacteristic sentimentality, Cornelia picked up her s***n and took a mouthful of soup. “Well whatta you know?” she declared in her usual clarion tones, “I really have outdone myself haven’t I?”

Mr Flower laughed and shook his head. “That’s what I like to see, my usual modest girl!”

Last edited by Josie on Tue Sep 13, 2005 2:32 pm; edited 1 time in total

#142: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 2:28 pm

Thanks Josie. Glad all the mistakes got sorted out. Looking forward to seeing Corney's date.

#143: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 4:07 pm

Awwwwww!!!
Thank you Jo!

*tries to remember if Jo killed off Corney's dad in Second Chance or Long Road Home, or if he's still alive and kicking!*

#144: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 5:16 pm

Lovely - so glad she got the note in time Very Happy

Thanks Jo

Liz

#145: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 6:31 pm

Phew, so Corny hasn't made any mistakes, other than to forget to check the mail box. I was forgetting that the letter box wouldnt be in the door! It's good to see her looking so happy, and that Joe seems to be doing alright. Thanks Josie

#146: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 7:00 pm

well at least she found it in time!!

now all she has to do is find something to wear - something appropriate....

#147: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 11:17 pm

Thanks, Josie. I'm really glad Corney found the note before the dinner date.

#148: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 12:25 am

Thank goodness she checked in time! I think Corney and Joe are just as wonderful a father and daughter as Evvy and Arthur, they're lucky girls.

Thanks Josie.

#149: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 5:43 am

Phew!

Thankyou Josie. I hope Corney doesn't stress too much about what to wear.

#150: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 8:35 am

Wonderful. Thank you Jo - glad she found the note before Mike turned up on Saturday!

#151: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 9:51 am

Richard glanced up from his textbook and wolf-whistled as Mike entered the kitchen, dressed in his best suit, and an expensive woollen coat.

“Very dapper!”

Mike looked down at himself with a frown. “Too much?”

“Not at all,” Richard replied, with a grin. “I’d date you looking like that!”

Mike laughed. “Sorry, but I’m hoping I’ll soon be spoken for! How’s the studying going?”

Richard grimaced. “Horribly.” Then throwing his pencil down and sitting back in his chair, he added, “You’ll pleased to note, though, that I’m all packed and I’ll be out of your hair by tomorrow afternoon.”

“What are the new rooms like?”

“I’ve seen better, I’ve seen worse. Still, enough of that. Where are you taking her?”

“I thought we’d head up to Buller’s Point for a little while, until it gets dark, and then back here to Guiseppe’s for dinner.”

“Buller’s Point?” Richard exclaimed, staring out of the window at the wintry November day. “In this weather? Are you out of your mind?”

Mike shrugged nonchalantly. “If she’s the girl that I think she is, then she won’t mind a bit. And it’ll be a true test of whether she really is right for me, though that’s not why I’m doing it.”

Richard shook his head. “No wonder you can never get any girl to date you! Top of a cliff on a November day, I ask you!”

Mike just grinned back at him. “We’ll see. Now, I should get going or I’ll be late, and that will not make a good impression! I’ll see you later,” and wrapping his scarf around his neck, he picked up a basket that he had packed earlier in the day, and set out to collect Cornelia from her home.

==

“You look a million dollars, sweetheart.”

Making her way down the stairs, dressed in a periwinkle-blue dress that perfectly matched her eyes, Cornelia looked up at her father with a tentative smile. “You really think I look okay?”

“Are you kidding me?” Joe replied enthusiastically. “You’ll knock him dead!”

Cornelia laughed. “Well let’s hope I don’t actually manage to do that!” Then as she reached the bottom of the stairs, she took hold of his outstretched hands. “I’m so nervous, Poppa!”

Her father smiled and squeezed her hands affectionately. “You really like this man, don’t you?”

Cornelia’s cheeks flushed pink and she nodded shyly. “I just hope he likes me too.”

“How could he not.”

There was silence for a moment as they stared at each other, Cornelia feeling the butterflies slowly disappearing from her stomach at her father’s encouragement. Then suddenly the doorbell rang, and she felt them all returning again.

Mr. Flower smiled. “I’ll get that – you go see to getting your coat.”

#152: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 10:00 am

Thanks Josie.

Still looking forward to seeing the date. (And wondering what is going to happen to Corney on top of the cliff...)

#153: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 10:19 am

oooh yay, so exciting! Am just as nervous as Corney, i think. really hope it all goes ok, although bearing in mind it's Corney, the odds are probably against that.

Thanks Jo! Very Happy

#154: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 10:34 am

Thank you Jo. I do hope all goes well and nothing too disasterous happens!

#155: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 12:41 pm

*hoping they have a wonderful time*

Thanks Jo

Liz

#156: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 1:03 pm

Thanks, Josie. They both seem to be very nervous. When my parents went on their first date, my Dad went to the garage to get a spare part for the car during the date! My Mum didn't mind and she married him a few months later!

#157: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 2:07 pm

umm periwinkle blue dress + clifftop = potential disaster in my mind!

but thanks Josie fab as ever

#158: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 4:18 pm

Awwwww!

Corney is one lucky girl and Mike is one helluva lucky guy!

Thanks Jo Smile

#159: Author: joelle, Location: lancashire, england

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 5:43 pm

aww this is so cute, i just hope it doesnt end in tragedy on the cliff! Wink

#160: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 8:05 pm

Awwww! (((((Corney))))) Horrible Maud person, how dare she dent Corney's confidence like that!!!

Thanks Josie.

#161: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 8:44 pm

Thanks Jo!

*wonders what disaster will befall the date!*

#162: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 12:15 am

I'm sure they'll have a lovely time..though it might not be completely conventional!

#163: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 6:59 am

I love your stories.
Anyway, we know she marries him in the end, the only thing is how long it will take and what will happen along the way, which is really what we want to know.

#164: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:47 pm

As Cornelia did his bidding, Joe walked across the entrance hall and opened the front door to find a stocky, pleasant-faced young man in his late twenties standing on the doorstep.

“You must be Michael?” Joe asked cheerily, holding out his hand in greeting. “Joseph Flower at your service.”

“Michael van Alden,” Mike replied, shaking the proffered hand, the grin on his face just managing to mask his nerves. “Nice to meet you, Sir.”

“Well come on in then,” Mr. Flower said, standing back and ushering his guest into the hallway. “Cornelia’s just fetching her coat – she won’t be long.” He closed the door on the cold air outside, and then turned to face his daughter’s date with an inquisitive air. “So tell me, Michael, what is it you do for a living?”

Nervous as he was, Mike failed to spot the twinkle in his host’s eyes. “I’m a stockbroker, Sir,” he replied politely, steeling himself for the inquisition.

“A stockbroker, eh?” Joe looked him up and down with a critical eye. “Where is it you live again?”

“Mount Vernon Street, Beacon Hill.”

“I see. And what, may I ask, are your intentions towards my daughter?”

“Poppa, leave him alone!”

The two men turned at the sound of Cornelia’s voice, Mike’s eyes lighting up as he caught sight of her, and she grimaced at her father and shook her head.

“Ignore him, Mike. Poppa, stop being a mean and coming over all protective!” she ordered with a disapproving glare.

Joe grinned. “Okay, okay, I’ll stop. You two kids go have a good time. I’ll see you later, sweetheart,” and he stooped to kiss his daughter on the cheek. Then turning back to Mike, his face took on a stern expression. “You look after her, young man, you hear me?”

“I will, Sir, I promise.”

“So I should hope!”

“Poppa!” Cornelia gave her father an exasperated glance, and as Joe chuckled away to himself, she hurriedly ushered Mike out of the house.

They walked the five or so strides to the car in silence, and then as he bent to open the door for her, Mike gave her a dazzling smile. “You look beautiful, by the way.”

Cornelia blushed to the roots of her fair hair, muttered a quick thank you, and rapidly climbed into the car. Grinning, Mike shut the door and made his way round to the driver’s seat. By the time he was in and settled, Corney had regained her usual composure and she turned to face him, a questioning look on her face.

“So where are you taking me then?”

“That’s my surprise,” he returned, with an aggravating grin. “Where would you like to go if you had the choice?”

“As long as it’s somewhere nice, I don’t mind!” she replied nonchalantly, refusing to rise. “Is it?”

“Let’s go and find out shall we?” and with a quick wink, he started the engine and they made their way out of the drive.

Last edited by Josie on Sun Sep 18, 2005 4:00 pm; edited 1 time in total

#165: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 10:02 pm

Thanks Jo

Looking forward to seeing how they got on at the clifftop.

Liz

#166: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 10:42 pm

Awwww - I think Corney's dad was once a pretty good SLOC too! Laughing

Thanks Jo.

#167: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 11:28 pm

Thanks, Jo. I'm glad Mike and Joe seem to be getting on ok. I'm looking forward to finding out where Mike and Corney are going on their date.

#168: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 8:15 pm

Thank you Jo! Very Happy

#169: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 8:55 pm

They drove north out of the city, passing through the suburbs of Somerville and Everett, chatting politely as they went and catching up on each other’s news from the previous week. It wasn’t until Mike turned the car onto the Salem road, wending their way towards the coast, that their nerves began to dissipate a little and they both started to relax.

As he finished telling her that Richard was finally moving out of his house and back into halls, Cornelia grinned and glanced at him out of the corner of her eye.

“Thing is, you say he drives you crazy, but you’re lucky having a brother. It sure gets lonely sometimes, being an only child.”

Mike glanced at her briefly and then turned his attention back to the road. “Yes, I imagine it would. But you’re far closer to your father than I am to either of my parents, so it works both ways.”

“Oh I know, and I’m not complaining, honest to God. I love my family just the way it is.”

“He seems real nice, your Pop.”

Cornelia smiled. “Yes, he is. He’s the best Poppa in the world, even though I say so myself.” She paused briefly, then added, “Say, Mike, I’m sorry he quizzed you like that.”

Mike grinned. “Not a problem. I was expecting a far worse grilling than the one he gave me!”

“I guess,” she responded, a frown knitting her brow. “And I’m pretty sure he was only kidding. He’s a little protective, that’s all.”

“So he should be.” Mike smiled, concentrating on his driving as the ocean loomed up ahead of them, unseen waves crashing on the rocks below the cliffs.

He turned left onto the narrow coast road, and Cornelia stared at a signpost on the grass verge and then turned to face him, puzzled. “You do know that this road’s a dead-end?”

Mike stared straight ahead, his lips twitching. “Apparently so.”

Corney grimaced. “Where are you taking me?”

“I told you, it’s a surprise,” he replied with a maddening air, and as he spoke, the road began to narrow and then came to a halt in front of a low wooden fence.

Mike stopped the car and climbed out, taking a bunch of keys from his pocket and using one of them to open a padlock on the gate blocking their path. Driving the car through into the private land, he relocked the gate behind them, and then continued on up the dirt track. As they neared the clifftop, a small, weathered, clapboard house came into view, looking lost and isolated in its wilderness-like surroundings.

”Mike, where are we?” Cornelia asked, staring out of the window in amazement.

“This is Burrell’s Point, the former home of one Wilbur Burrell III, now deceased,” Mike replied with a grin. “He also happened to be my great-grandfather, and nowadays all this belongs to me.”

“This is yours?” came the incredulous response, as they drove past the house towards the cliffs.

“Well, mine and Richard’s, to be precise. But as he hates the place and never comes near it anymore, it’s pretty much just mine these days.” He drew the car to a halt a few metres from the edge of the cliffs and turned to her with a smile. “Want to get out and take a look at the view?”

“As long as you’re not planning on pushing me off?”

Mike’s mouth fell open, aghast, and he began to stammer a protest before noticing the slight smirk touching the sides of her mouth. “Another comment like that and I just might!” he retorted indignantly.

Cornelia laughed. “Got you!” she giggled, somewhat reprehensibly. Then opening her door and climbing out, she waded through the long grass towards the edge of the cliff.

As the wild, stormy sea opened up below her, she gazed out at the vista, a rapt expression on her face. The sky was all purples, blues and greys, with rainclouds out on the horizon and dusk beginning to take a hold. Tiny fishing boats tossed and turned on the waves as they made their way back to shore after a day on the ocean, and a few seagulls hovered between clifftop and water, their cries carrying on the breeze as they searched for their dinner.

“I guess you think I’m crazy, bringing you out here on a day like today?”

Cornelia turned her head as Mike came to stand beside her, and he glanced back at her, an anxious expression on his face.

“It may seem like a god-awful place, but it really isn’t.”

“Actually, I think it’s charming and romantic,” she responded with a smile.

“You do?” came the shocked reply.

“Yes, I do.” Turning around fully to face the house, she gazed around her, taking in the rest of her surroundings. “If you’d told me where we were going before we came, I’d have said it was everything I’d hate about a place, but seeing it, I don’t feel like that at all.”

Mike smiled. “Glad to hear it,” he said slowly, and paused briefly, gazing into her enormous blue eyes as she stared back at him. Then indicating the wicker basket he had put next to him on the grass, he asked in a brisk voice, “Now, can I tempt you with a drink, Miss Flower?”

Cornelia grinned. “Consider me tempted! What do you have on offer?”

“Scotch or champagne,” he replied, bending down to undo the basket and pulling out two bottles. "I’m assuming it’ll be champagne for you?”

“In actual fact, I think I’d prefer a scotch.”

“Really?”

“Yes please, if that’s okay? It’ll warm my bones!”

Mike laughed and retrieving two tumblers from the basket, he began to pour them both a drink. “Very wise.”

“You don’t live in the mountains for several winters without learning the medicinal qualities of scotch and brandy!” she responded with a grin.

“I guess not.” Standing up, he handed her a glass and then raised his own. “To your very good health, Cornelia Flower!”

“To yours too,” she responded in kind. Then, as she shivered involuntarily, she added, “”I think I need warming right now.”

“Come on then, let’s go shelter at the house,” and turning, Mike led the way towards the car. Climbing in, he waited until she was settled and then handed her his drink. “Here, can you hold this for me whilst I drive?”

Putting the key in the ignition, he started the engine and they set off slowly across the grass towards the house, chatting as they went. Just as they were approaching the porch, one of the wheels of the car hit a stone and there was a shriek as the drinks Cornelia was holding splashed down the front of her dress. Mike slammed on the brakes, making the spillage worse, and stared at her in horror.

“Oh Corney, I’m so sorry.”

Still clutching the glasses, Cornelia closed her eyes and bit her bottom lip, willing the tears that were pricking the back of her eyes to disappear. She couldn’t believe it. For the first time in her life, she had felt beautiful and special this evening, knowing how much the dress suited her, and now this had happened. It just wasn’t fair.

“It’s okay,” she mumbled, opening her eyes and staring down at her skirt. If only she hadn’t undone her coat when she had got into the car.

“No, it’s not okay.” Mike reached out and took the drinks from her, handing her his handkerchief in return. “I should have been more careful.”

“It doesn’t matter, Mike, honestly.”

Her voice caught as she dabbed futilely at her front, and Mike watched her, concerned. “Will it come out?”

Corney shook her head. “Doubt it.”

Seeing how upset she was, despite her trying to hide it, Mike was furious with himself. Then a sudden idea came to him. He couldn’t fix the stain on her dress, but perhaps he could make her smile. Picking up one of the glasses that he had stood on the dashboard, he tipped the remaining contents down his shirt. Cornelia caught the movement from the corner of her eye, and looked up at him, amazed.

“What are you doing?”

Mike grinned back at her. “Well, I can’t fix what I did, so I thought I’d join you, make sure you’re not alone.”

Cornelia stared at him for a second as if he had gone mad. Then suddenly she began to laugh. “You really are loopy!” she managed to stammer through her giggles.

Mike joined in her laughter. “Just call us the spiller twins!”

Sitting up, Corney wiped her eyes, smearing her make-up in the process, and Mike reached out and took his handkerchief, gently wiping away the black smudges.

“I really am sorry, Corney, I’m such an idiot.”

She shook her head. “No you’re not. Well maybe a little bit,” she grinned, as he raised his eyebrows.

Mike chuckled. “Come on, let’s go explore the house.”

They spent the next two hours happily exploring and then sitting on the porch, chatting amiably, and by the time they were ready to leave, Cornelia had forgotten all about her dress.

“I can’t believe Richard hates this place,” she said, as they packed the glasses away in the basket and walked out of the house.

“Funny story, that,” Mike replied, grinning as he turned to lock up. “We were staying up here one weekend, when he suddenly started shrieking that he’d seen a ghost. He was terrified, I’d never seen him like that before, so I ran outside to see what was there.”

“What was it?”

“A sheet had blown off the washing line in the wind!” Cornelia burst out laughing and Mike continued, as they made their way down the porch steps towards the car. “He wouldn’t believe me at first – I had to march him outside to prove it. He’s not been back since. I think it’s the humiliation that puts him off.”

“When was this?” Corney asked, still chuckling. “When you were kids?”

“Oh no, not nearly so long ago as that!” Mike replied. “It was about two weeks before I left for England during the war.”

As Cornelia started laughing again, Mike opened the passenger side door for her, and then went to put the basket in the boot. Then as he climbed into driver’s seat, she gazed around her one last time and turned back to face him.

“So what made you bring me here?”

Mike stared at her for a moment, and then smiled. “It’s my special place,” he replied simply.

Corney watched him closely and a wry smile touched her lips. “So how many other girls have you brought here on first dates?”

“None, as it happens,” he retorted, refusing to rise this time. “You’re the first.” Her eyes opened wide in surprise, her mouth forming an ‘o’, and Mike gave her a wicked grin. “Or at least, the first to live to tell the tale!”

“Oh, you!” Cornelia exclaimed, hitting him on the arm as he chuckled at his own joke. “Anyhow, I may have survived, but my dress didn’t and nor did your shirt!”

“True enough,” he responded as he started the engine and they began to drive away. “Now, Miss Flower, how does a little Italian take your fancy?”

“The meal or the man?” Corney replied, giggling again.

Mike grinned and rolled his eyes. “I can see this is going to be a long night!”

Last edited by Josie on Mon Sep 19, 2005 10:40 am; edited 4 times in total

#170: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 9:07 pm

Awww, that was lovely!

*wonders idly if Mike could be persuaded to give Emperor Zhark some tips*

#171: Author: joelle, Location: lancashire, england

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 9:16 pm

Great! Can`t wait to see more

#172: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 9:23 pm

Thanks, Jo. I'm glad Corney liked the house and the view.

#173: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 10:00 pm

That was so right for Corney and Mike - they truly are made for each other!

Thanks Jo.

#174: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 11:12 pm

Awwwwww!!!!

Thank you Jo!!!!

I WANT A MIKE!!!!!!

#175: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 11:37 pm

Oh, lovely - and tipping scotch over himself like that just to make her feel better. What a star!!

#176: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 12:02 am

Absolutely lovely Very Happy

Thanks Jo

Liz

#177: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 6:26 am

Great posts, Jo. They're definitely made for one another.

Thanks.

#178: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 11:26 am

Awww. lovely! Thank you Jo.

#179: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 2:33 pm

Bewtiful!

Thank you Jo! Very Happy

#180: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 9:33 pm

Just caught all up on this and feeling all warm and fluffy

My dad took my mum to a scrapyard for their first date - apparently he'd told her that's what they were doing and she didn't believe him Rolling Eyes

#181: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 5:23 pm

Mike parked the car outside his Beacon Hill home, and they walked the short distance down the hill to Charles Street, heading for Giuseppe’s, a local favourite and haunt of the Van Alden family for many years.

Giuseppe’s wife, Lucia, a short, dark, portly woman with an effusive all-encompassing manner, greeted them at the door. She threw her arms around Mike as if he were the prodigal son and eyed Cornelia critically between fast bursts of chatter, checking whether this newcomer was good enough for her beloved boy. Finally, after leaving them outside in the cold for five minutes while she chattered on, she decided that Corney would do, for now at least, and ushered them inside.

Once they were seated at a private, candlelit table in one corner, and Lucia had bustled off to get them some wine, Mike turned to Cornelia with a grin.

“You handled her very well just there.”

“She’s something else, isn’t she?” Cornelia grimaced. “I feel like I’ve two heads, the way she was looking at me!”

“Well, I promise you I can only see one!” Mike replied, giving her a quick wink. "And if it’s any consolation, you passed muster!"

“You think so?”

“Oh yes, definitely. Believe me, you’d know if she disapproved! Ask Richard to tell you tales of how she’s dealt with a couple of his dates!”

Cornelia laughed. “Did you see her face when she saw the marks on my dress? It’s a good thing you’d spilled too, or I reckon she’d have had me take it off there and then, and sent it away to be laundered!”

“And given you one of her flowered smocks to wear in return,” Mike finished with a wicked grin. “It would’ve suited you.”

“Well if that’s what you think, then I’ll wear one next time we go out and be done with it!” Cornelia retorted, still chuckling as she arranged her napkin in her lap.

“There’ll be a next time, then?”

She glanced up to find him gazing at her, his eyes soft, an amused smile touching his lips.

“Yes, I hope so,” she replied coyly, her cheeks scarlet as she stared back at him.

“So do I.” He was silent for a moment as he continued to hold her gaze. Then as Lucia arrived with the wine, he turned back to the menu in front of him. “So then, what are you thinking of having?” he asked in a brisk, cheery voice.

“What do you recommend?”

“Definitely the meatballs – they’re Giuseppe’s specialty. Isn’t that right, Lucia?”

“Sono squisiti!” Lucia replied with a beaming smile, as she poured their wine.

“Well in that case, I guess I’ll go with the meatballs,” Cornelia stated, grinning and shutting her menu.

“Two meatballs, please, Lucia,” Mike ordered, following suit. Then, as that lady muttered her approval and bustled off to the kitchen, he lifted his glass. “So, what shall we toast?”

Corney screwed her face up in thought. “How about hoping for a white Christmas. I’ve not seen one since I had to leave Austria. I’d sure love it if we had snow this year.”

“I gather you’ve never had a New England winter then?”

“No, why?”

“You don’t need to hope for a White Christmas – it’s a certainty!”

“Oh. Well let’s toast to it anyway, just to be sure.”

Mike grinned. “Okay, why not,’ he said, chinking his glass against the side of hers. “Here’s to as much snow as we can handle over the holidays. Bing Crosby would be proud!”

"To snow and Bing Crosby," Corney replied with a chuckle, and took a sip of her wine.

The remainder of the evening passed by the in the same relaxed, enjoyable manner. Giuseppe’s meatballs proved to be every bit as delicious as his wife had promised, and the hours flew by, conversation and wine both flowing freely, as Corney and Mike talked about anything and everything and put the world to rights.

It was late by the time they finally left the restaurant, and as they stepped outside, following a protracted goodbye from the proprietors, Cornelia giggled as she pulled her coat around her tightly to keep warm.

“I thought they’d never allow us to leave!”

“It can be something of a snare,” Mike returned, grinning. “Taxi!” he called, sticking his hand out, and then cursed under his breath as it swept passed them, splashing his trousers with water. “Damn idiot! Did he get you?”

Corney shook her head. “Not at all. Maybe I should return the favour though!” and walking to the edge of the curb, she jumped into the puddle, feet together, covering her shoes and splashing her dress. “There – now we’re both covered in whiskey and have wet feet!”

Mike stared at her for a moment, as if she had gone mad, and then threw his head back with a laugh. “You know what? I’m very glad I met you, Corney Flower.”

“I’m glad I met you too,” she returned, grinning up at him, her previous shyness taken away by the wine.

As he gazed down into her shining blue eyes, she felt her stomach flip and swallowed hard. Mike opened his mouth to say something, when out of the corner of his eye, he suddenly caught sight of a taxi coming towards them, and moving away from her and into the road, he stuck out his hand, ensuring that the driver stopped this time.

“Come along, let’s get you home,” and taking hold of her elbow, he guided her into the cab.

When they arrived back at the Flowers’ Brookline home, Corney hopped out and Mike paid the driver before following her. She watched in amazement as the taxi, which she was expecting to wait for Mike, just drove off down the road back towards the city.

“Hey!” she called after it, waving her hand in the air. “Why didn’t he wait for you?”

“Because I told him not to,” Mike replied with a grin. “I fancy the walk home.”

“But it’s so far!”

Mike shrugged. “I need the exercise.” Then nodding towards the house, he said, “Shouldn’t you get in before you catch your death? You’ve wet feet, remember?”

“I guess I should really.” She paused for a moment, and then gazed up at him, the knot from earlier still pulling in her belly as she looked into his laughing, grey eyes. “Thank you, Mike. I’ve had a wonderful night.”

“Well, you’re very welcome, Miss Flower. I’ve had a wonderful time too.’ Reaching out, he took hold of her hand. “I have to go away to California and New York for a couple of weeks of work – I leave tomorrow. Can I see you again when I get back?”

Cornelia smiled and nodded her head. “Yes please, I’d like that.”

“Excellent.” Mike beamed down at her, looking thoroughly pleased with himself, “That’s excellent.” He squeezed her hand tightly, smiling again as she returned his grasp, and then let it drop back to her side. “Goodnight, Corney. Sleep tight.”

“You too! Don’t let the bedbugs bite!”

Mike laughed, and watched as she began to walk back towards the house. As she reached the front door, she turned and gave him a little wave. Then opening the door, she made her way inside, shutting it behind her. For a couple of seconds Mike stood there, staring at the house, lost deep in thought. Then, with a wide smile still plastered on his face, he turned and began his long trek home.

Last edited by Josie on Thu Sep 22, 2005 11:05 pm; edited 1 time in total

#182: Author: joelle, Location: lancashire, england

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 5:44 pm

oh! I have butterflies in my tummy! Cant wait till he returns. thank you.

#183: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 6:28 pm

*sighs happily*

What a lovely date, thank you Jo Very Happy

#184: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 6:31 pm

Thanks, Jo. That was wonderful and lovely. I can't wait to see the next date. I'm glad Corney passed muster with Lucia.

#185: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 6:35 pm

Wonderful - they are so perfect for each other

*happy sigh*

Thanks Jo

Liz

#186: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 7:21 pm

Why did he walk home? Has he run out of money?

Lovely date, Josie - they're made for each other. Laughing

#187: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 9:24 pm

*Thinks Mike has the taxi waiting round the corner* Laughing

Cheers Jo!

#188: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 10:25 pm

What a lovely first date! I can just see him walking home, whistling and grinning from ear to ear Razz

#189: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 11:12 pm

I did think though that the reason Mike let the taxi go was he wanted to kiss her goodnight before he went home. You're in charge of the story, Jo - don't mind me!

#190: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 12:10 am

oh how lovely!

Thank you, Jo

#191: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 6:48 am

Lovely, lovely, lovely . . .

#192: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 9:13 am

Didn't he have a car at the beginning?

#193: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 10:25 am

keren wrote:

Didn't he have a car at the beginning?

Yes, Keren, he did. See beginning of the post you've just read for where it went... Very Happy

josie wrote:

As for why he decided to walk home, there's no hidden story there - it's just as he said, he fancied the walk! Very Happy

#194: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 1:53 pm

Scuse the spree! Here's the next bit...

Ten days later, Cornelia was sitting in her father’s study, balancing the household books, when the clanging of the doorbell sounded throughout the house. Glad of the interruption – household finances were never her favourite choice of occupation – she set down her pen and made her way through to the entrance hall to answer the door. She was surprised to find a deliveryman from one of the city’s top department stores on her doorstep.

“Miss C. Flower?”

“That’s me,” Cornelia replied, curious as to why he was there. “We've not ordered anything from you though, are you…”

Before she could finish her sentence, he thrust a large, flat, white box in her direction. “If you could just sign here,” he added, holding his clipboard out to her.

“Sorry, but I think there must be a mistake, I’ve not placed any orders with you.”

“Are you not Miss C. Flower?”

“No, it's…I mean, yes, I am, but…”

“Then there’s no mistake, ma’am,” he repeated impatiently, pushing the clipboard towards her again. “If you could just sign, then I’ll be on my way.”

Still confused, Cornelia did as he asked, and when she handed the pen back to him, the man turned to leave.

“Hang on one moment!” she called after him, “Does it say who placed the order?”

He glanced back at her with a shake of his head. “Sorry, ma’am, they don’t give us that information. Just tell us that it’s paid for and the address it’s to go to.”

“Oh,” she stared at the box in her hands. “Okay, thank you,” and as he climbed back into his van and set off down the driveway, Cornelia closed the door and made her way through to the salon.

Seating herself on the corner of a chaise longue, she placed the box down on the coffee table in front of her, staring at it for a moment, and then slowly removed the lid. Carefully peeling back the protective tissue, she found herself looking at a familiar periwinkle-blue material, and she hurriedly pulled the dress out of the box and held it up in front of her. It was the exact same style and colour as the one she had worn on her date with Mike; the same dress that was now consigned to the rubbish bin after futile attempts to remove the whiskey stain from the front of it.

As she stared at it in amazement, she heard a cough as her father came into the room.

“Who was that at the door?”

“Deliveryman,” she replied mechanically, still staring at the dress, open-mouthed.

Joe noticed what she was holding up and gave her a cheery smile. “Hey, you managed to get the stain out after all!”

Cornelia shook her head. “This is a new dress. That guy just delivered it,” she replied, turning to face him as a sudden idea dawned on her. “Did you do this?”

“Did I do what?” Joe asked innocently, seating himself in an armchair opposite her.

“Send me this? The replacement dress?” she explained, as he looked at her with a puzzled expression.

Joe shook his head and grinned. “Nothing to do with me, I’m afraid.”

“Well who did then?”

“Who d'you think?”

“I’ve no idea!” Her father raised his eyebrows and she frowned back at him. “What? Oh!” Her eyes opened wide as she stared at him in disbelief. “You really think…?”

Joe chuckled at her surprise. “I reckon it’d be a pretty good guess!” Cornelia continued to stare backwards and forwards dumbly between her father and the dress, and Joe sat back in his chair, a satisfied smile on his face. “Unless I’m much mistaken, I’d say you’ve found yourself a good man there.”

===

A few days after she received the dress, a letter arrived in the post from Mike, saying that he had the day off work the following Tuesday, and would she like to join him for a day out in the city. Cornelia promptly replied that she would be delighted, and as the clock struck eleven on the Tuesday morning, she answered the doorbell, feeling a sense of anticipation and excitement welling up inside.

Mike was standing on the doorstep, dressed in a smart suit, a namebadge pinned to his chest and a cap perched jauntily on his head.

“What on earth…?”

“Van Alden Tours at your service, Ma’am!” he said cheerily, doffing his cap. “We do a mighty fine tour of Boston, all sights and sounds included, and lunch thrown in on the house.”

“What are you doing?” Corney replied, giggling at his clothing and manner. “What’s with this get-up?”

“Just as I say - Van Alden Tours, ready to take you out for a day on the town!” He nodded his head towards the car. “You ready to go?”

Nodding and grabbing her coat from the stand next to the door, she followed him towards the vehicle, and then burst out laughing again as she saw the homemade ‘Van Alden Tours’ sign hanging in the widow.

“You really did this wholesale, didn’t you?”

“I have to amuse myself somehow,” he returned, chuckling as she shook her head. “I can take it all down if you like?”

“Not on your life! You leave it just where it is!” Mike opened the door for her, and she climbed into the passenger seat. “So what’s this all in aid of, anyhow?”

Mike shut her door, and walked around to the driver’s side, settling himself in his seat before he replied. “I know you’ve seen something of Boston already, but I thought I’d take you on my own personal tour,” he explained, pointing to his namebadge. “I always think it’s good to see a city from the viewpoint of someone who lives there and knows it well. I’ve lived here all my life, and I just love the place, so I reckon I’m perfectly qualified to show you what’s so great about it. Sound good?”

“Sounds perfect,” she returned, a warm smile on her lips. Then as he turned to put the key in the ignition, she added, “Oh, by the way, thank you for my dress.”

Mike stopped and looked back up at her with a smile. “How d’you know it was me that sent it?”

Cornelia laughed. “I didn’t for sure, ‘til just then. You just gave yourself away royally!”

Mike paused for a second and then shook his head with a wry chuckle. “Why do I always do that?,” he asked himself despairingly. “Anyway, it was the least I could do, after I wrecked your other one like that.”

“You didn’t have to.”

“Yes I did. And anyhow, I wanted to see you in it again sometime, and you couldn’t have worn it as the old rag it was by the end of the night!”

Corney was silent for a second as she took this in. “It’s the nicest thing anyone’s ever done for me,” she said eventually, a faint blush touching her cheeks.

“Well I’ll have to spoil you more often then, won’t I?” he returned with a grin, as he started the engine. “Shall we get going?”

“Absolutely! Drive on, Jeeves!” she ordered, putting on her best British accent.

“Yes Ma’am!” and with another doff of his cap, Mike hit the accelerator and they set off down the drive.

Last edited by Josie on Fri Sep 23, 2005 6:06 pm; edited 3 times in total

#195: Author: joelle, Location: lancashire, england

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 2:04 pm

Oooh! I can`t wait to see how this goes! And how sweet is he? You don`t know anyone like this do you?

#196: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 2:25 pm

Hurrah for Mike!!

Laughing

#197: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 4:21 pm

What a super guy Razz

#198: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 4:39 pm

How lovely he is - Thanks Jo

Liz