The CBB :: View topic - A Friend of the Family

#1: A Friend of the Family Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 11:01 am

This is my first ever drabble - I hope I'm posting it correctly! Would really appreciate some suggestions for the title when you've seen a bit more of it... It's set approx 3 years after the end of Prefects. I do hope you like it

“I am sorry, Mary-Lou, but I just don’t think it’s working out.”

Mary-Lou Trelawney stared at Gerard, frozen with disbelief. When he’d telephoned her at the museum to suggest lunch at the Savoy, she’d wondered if he was going to ask her to marry him. Now he was going to end their relationship? And in the most public place possible?

“I-I don’t understand,” she said, placing her gin and tonic carefully back onto the table and staring at him, her blue eyes wide open with disbelief.

He winced, “I am sorry, honestly. We’ve had some great times… I don’t want you to think I’m not grateful and that I don’t love you. You know I do. But – well, it’s Louise. She’s threatened to take the children away to France if I carry on seeing you.”

“I see.” Mary-Lou said, quietly. Inside she felt anything but calm.

Last edited by Mia on Thu Jun 23, 2005 2:49 pm; edited 75 times in total

#2: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 11:15 am

Well, no ideas for a title yet but I'm looking forward to reading more. Thanks Mia.

#3: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 11:26 am

Mary-Lou, a bit on the side? I'm shocked!

Looking good, Mia Very Happy

#4: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 11:28 am

Katie wrote:

Mary-Lou, a bit on the side? I'm shocked!

Looking good, Mia Very Happy

I don't know if she's a bit on the side. After all Louise knows about her and Mary-Lou was thinking he was going to propose. I thought he was divorced and his ex wife has something against Mary-Lou.

#5: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 11:58 am

Their waiter arrived to take away the plates from their first course. The wine waiter refilled Mary-Lou’s wine glass and she practically snatched it from his hands.

“Steady on, old thing,” Gerard said in alarm, as she drained the glass and slammed it so hard onto the table that it cracked. The restaurant was full and people at nearby tables were starting to stare.

“It’s been two years, Gerard. You told me that you'd left your wife. You told me you were already separated! I thought you were going to ask me to marry you.”

“Mary-Lou, please. I never said –“

“Do you know how stupid I feel?” Mary-Lou, to her horror, felt tears sliding down her cheeks.

Gerard glared at the other diners, then turned back to her. His expression softened. She was beautiful, even with her mascara running. Ever since she’d been introduced to him by the Director of the British Museum during her first week of work there, he’d been smitten. But one of the most attractive things about her was her independence, the fact that she had made no demands on him. She had her own flat, a comparatively well-paid job as a curator of Amazonian artefacts with frequent leaves of absence for her archaeological exploits. He felt bad that he’d fibbed a bit about Louise, never really confirmed Mary-Lou’s impressions that he was separated, in fact – he paused – he probably had mentioned something about a divorce, but that was a long time ago and they’d never discussed it since. It just hadn’t come up during their glamorous life in London.

He hardened his heart. He couldn’t bear never to see his children again. They were only young. No, he had to give Mary-Lou up.

He sighed and handed her his handkerchief. She threw it back at him and stood up, knocking her chair over. The whole restaurant was now aware of the argument and the maitre d’ was heading towards them.

Mary-Lou rubbed her eyes with her napkin and stood up, trying to summon up some dignity. She took a last long look at Gerard, who looked faintly surprised by all the drama, as was his way, and decided not to even waste another word on him.

“Is Madam ok?” The maitre d’ asked, an expression of concern on his face.

“I have to leave. I’m sorry. I’ve had some bad news. Ex–excuse me.” Mary-Lou left the restaurant, breaking into a run in the hotel foyer, now openly sobbing, concerned only with getting out of this awful place where Gerard, whom she had loved so much, had dumped her in such a casual fashion.

She couldn’t see where she was going and the foyer was as busy as the restaurant. She crashed into someone, who reached out to steady her, but she pushed past, until she realised that she was outside and someone had followed her, called out her name. She turned round, wiping her eyes, hot with shame and embarrassment.

“Gerard, please leave me alone – “ She trailed off when she realised that the dark-haired man stood next to her wasn’t Gerard.

Last edited by Mia on Mon Jun 06, 2005 4:07 pm; edited 2 times in total

#6: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 12:02 pm

So who was it? Please, let's have some more of this.

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

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 12:09 pm

Oooo so who is it then???

This is looking good, thank you Mia!

#8: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 12:26 pm

oooh is it David Russell come to comfort her?

Thanks for more so quickly. Hope you can keep the speed up! Wink

#9: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 12:29 pm

Interesting start, Mia. Looking forward to more.

#10: Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 12:38 pm

Hmmm. Very interesting... so who is the dark mysterious man?

Cheers, Mia!

#11: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 12:46 pm

This looks great!
Looking forward to more.

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

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 12:55 pm

Rosea wrote:

oooh is it David Russell come to comfort her?

Was he dark?? I've always thought he was blond - but hey he could have dyed his hair!

#13: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 1:01 pm

Who says it's David Russell? Twisted Evil

Thanks for the feedback, I was really nervous before I posted!
I was just out on my lunch break, but I will try and write the next bit now.

#14: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 1:10 pm

Doesn't David look like Madge? I have no idea! I only guessed him as Mia asked about him in her question post.
Looking forward to finding out either way!

#15: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 1:19 pm

“I thought it was you – are you all right? What’s wrong?” he said. He looked concerned.

“I’m – I’m so sorry…”

“Here, calm down. Take deep breaths. You look like you’re going to faint.”

“I can’t stay here…”

“Come on,” He took her arm and led her back into the hotel, ignoring her protests. Once there, he pushed her into a small meeting room just off the main foyer and handed her his handkerchief.
For a few moments she just sat there, howling like a little girl. She was conscious of him speaking to someone at the door, but preventing anyone coming in.

“I won’t be a minute, Dan – yes, I do, she’s a family friend.”

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

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 1:49 pm

Ooh it must be David!

Thanks Mia and really great beginning Very Happy

#17: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 3:12 pm

I've got a title now - I hope it's not been used before. Hope this next bit is ok

Mary-Lou stopped crying and blew her nose. Rix Bettany sat down on the chair next to her and poured her a glass of water.

“Thanks for rescuing me, Rix. I was in the restaurant and, well, my – my boyfriend just ended things. I just took it badly, I suppose I over-reacted, and then suddenly everything went wrong. Was it you I smashed into?”

Rix tried to suppress a grin, “Oh no, that was Sir Robert Welles, one of the head trustees of my hospital. And also the chap who tried to stop you running out into the traffic was Mr Rayner, the chief consultant surgeon, my boss. I have to say it was funny seeing you knock them both flying… We’ve had a meeting here and were just about to grab a late lunch – David’s here too actually.”

He paused and looked at her, “I say, I am sorry. Was it a serious relationship?”

“I thought so – but I suppose I was wrong.” Mary-Lou thought of the calm way Gerard had broken the news and realised that what she had taken for cruelty was just his usual way of getting rid of any unpleasantness as quickly and efficiently as possible. He’d obviously told her in the dining room of the Savoy in the hope that she would take the news in her usual calm way and not make the scene she had made. She shuddered when she thought of how she’d run crying through the restaurant.

“I must look a sight,” she said, digging her compact out of her handbag and applying some powder.

“It must be years since I saw you – Bride’s wedding wasn’t it? Four years ago.” Rix said, reflectively.

“I know. I’ve not kept in touch with anyone – I’ve barely written to Joey.” Mary-Lou admitted. “I’ve been so busy with work and well, pretty much all my spare time was spent with Gerard. How are the family?”

“Fine, more or less - Look, I’ll have to go – Rayner’s bound to be looking thunderous as usual. Are you free sometime to catch up? I’ll bring David along as well, he’s more up to date with the Russell and Maynard news than me.” Rix looked away for a moment and frowned.

“I’d really like that,” Mary-Lou smiled.

Rix opened the door for her and she walked out, her head held high. A small group of four men of various ages, including David Russell, were stood outside and all of them looked at her with interest.

“I’m terribly sorry I delayed your lunch,” She said, smiling. Rix had been right, a man who appeared to be in his late thirties did look annoyed, although the others seemed relaxed, and she was anxious to avert any trouble for Rix and David.

“Not at all, my dear,” An older, blond man in expensive-looking clothes stepped forward and took her hand.

Rix introduced her to them at once, “Mary-Lou, this is Sir Robert Welles, and my colleagues Mr Rayner and Dr Lyndhurst. You know David, of course. Gentleman, Miss Trelawney, who is a close friend of the family.”

She shook hands all round. David kissed her on the cheek. “Great to see you again,” he said, giving her an appreciative look. Mary-Lou smiled at them all, noticing that Dr Lynthurst was very handsome and that he walked with the aid of a stick and Rayner looked frightening even when he was smiling.

“Miss Trelawney, you will join us for lunch?” Sir Robert Welles invited, although it was more of a command than a question. He was obviously a man used to getting what he wanted.

#18: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 3:46 pm

I'd be growling at Gerard if I wasn't actually slightly distracted by Rix being such a sweetheart to poor Mary Lou!

Thanks Mia

#19: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 4:12 pm

This is great Mia.

Will Rix and David both fall for OOAO I wonder?

#20: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 4:15 pm

I'm really enjoying this! Very Happy

#21: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 4:56 pm

Updates already! Excellent. Rix is lovely in this.
pokes Gerard - grr!

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

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 5:53 pm

Ooh, nice to see Rix featuring prominently. He's a much under-used character.

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

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 6:59 pm

oooh new ML drabble!!!

and Rix and David (who sound rather yummy)

#24: Author: Chris, Location: Nottingham

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 7:06 pm

This is great - sorry to seem greedy, but when can we see some more?

#25: Author: Chris, Location: Nottingham

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 7:07 pm

This is great - sorry to seem greedy, but when can we see some more?

#26: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 8:11 pm

The six of them adjourned to the restaurant, which Mary-Lou anxiously scanned for Gerard. He seemed to have gone. The maitre d’ caught her eye and was about to speak, but Sir Robert Welles quailed him with a look.

“Robert, we really need to discuss the funding for the new wing,” Rayner said, impatiently. He sat down next to Sir Robert and motioned for Rix to sit with them, which he did. Mary-Lou sat down at the other end of the table, next to David and Lyndhurst, who smiled shyly at her.

“You look really well, Mary-Lou.” David said, pouring wine for her. “Did Rix tell you Maeve’s getting married in June?”

“No, is she? Who to? I was just telling Rix that I haven’t kept in touch with anyone since I came back from the Middle East. Apart from Joey I mean, she and I still write occasionally, and I saw Con Maynard about eighteen months ago.”

“Well, Maeve’s marrying Lyndhurst’s cousin, isn’t she, old man? I think she was trying to track you down actually, to invite you to the wedding.”

“I’ll write to her,” Mary-Lou said at once. “Is she still at the Quadrant?”

“Yep. Aunt Mollie’s gone to see Peggy in Canada again but she’ll be back for the wedding. Peggy’s had another daughter, my godchild. Bride’s expecting in September... Oh, and my parents have emigrated to Australia for good now that the twins are away at school. Sybil’s had a son...”

“Oh yes, I knew that.” Mary-Lou glanced at Daniel Lyndhurst who was looking at the menu in silence. She could tell he was shy and Mary-Lou had not been known during her schooldays as a the champion butter-in for nothing. “Did David say she was marrying your cousin, Dr Lyndhurst?”

“Yes, I’ve met her a few times, she’s lovely. Freddie’s a lucky man,” he said.

“I’m pleased for her,” Mary-Lou thought about Maeve, they had been fairly friendly at the Chalet School, although it was Josette who had been one of the Gang.

“So what were you doing in the Middle East, Miss Trelawney?” Lyndhurst asked, looking grateful to be included in the conversation.

Mary-Lou told him and David about her archaeological dig in Jordan and then at length about her post at the British Museum. “It’s really what I’ve always wanted to do. I’ve been so lucky.” she said.

They discussed archaeology and travelling for the rest of the meal. As she finished her coffee, Mary-Lou glanced across and noticed that Welles, Rayner and Rix were still deep in serious conversation, presumably about the new wing.

“I’ve got the afternoon free - are you able to come for a drink?” David asked quietly. “We can properly catch up and I can tell you all the family news without us having to be polite and chat with this crowd.”

Last edited by Mia on Tue May 31, 2005 3:26 pm; edited 1 time in total

#27: Author: ravenseyes, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 10:03 pm

Ooh I think I like Mary-Lou here. A human Mary-Lou

#28: Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 5:12 am

Excellent start, Mia! A nice Mary-Lou, and Rix and David! Thank you.

More, please!

#29: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 6:43 am

In-teresting! I like this one Mia!

More please!

#30: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 10:05 am

liking this one too (I really must do some work and stop getting hooked on new drabbles)
ML seems lovely, as to Rix and David. Am wondering why David is more up-to-date with all the family news than Rix though...

thank Mia!

#31: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 10:32 am

Robin, maybe this will go some way to explaining it... so glad you are all enjoying it still, all the feedback is really encouraging me to continue!

For a second Mary-Lou wondered if it was wise to go for yet another drink that day – after all, she had already had three glasses of wine – but in the end she agreed. David was very persuasive and anything would be better than going home to her little flat that had so many memories of Gerard and going to the Museum would also be awful. Gerard and she had attended so many events there and he was a close friend of the Director. For the first time, she wondered how many of her colleagues knew about the affair. She’d never had cause to be especially discreet. What if they thought she’d known about Louise and was a willing partner in the deceit?

Mary-Lou wished she had some real friends in London, but she’s concentrated too much on her career. How dreadful it felt not to anyone to confide in.

At the end of the meal Sir Robert settled the bill and was nice to her when she thanked him.

“Not at all, my dear Miss Trelawney. It was a pleasure to meet you and I do hope we will meet again soon,” he said. Rayner shook her hand but he seemed preoccupied and barely gave her a second glance. The two men left in a taxi with quiet Dr Lyndhurst.

David turned to Rix and Mary-Lou,

“Rix, do you have to get back? Or can you come for a drink with us?” he asked.

Rix looked at his watch, then at Mary-Lou. She couldn’t read his expression.

“I suppose I can come for one,” he said.

“Good man, Come on, there’s a pub round the corner. Good of Welles to stand us lunch wasn’t it? Lyndhurst looked better than usual, I even got
a sentence out of him instead of the usual two words. Rix, I was telling Mary-Lou all the family gossip. I suppose Maeve’s big party will be the next time we’ll all get together again.”

“Oh yes, did David tell you about the wedding? It’s in June and they’re having a big house party at the end of April. Maeve was full of it when I spoke to her this morning – something about Freddie Brentford’s mother not liking the decorations. I hope she’s not stressing Dad out too much. What would you like to drink?”

“Uncle Dick had a heart attack last year,” David explained while Rix was at the bar. “There was an enormous row going on at the time about whether Rix would go to join the San or not. Uncle Jack wanted him to go out to Switzerland but he refused. I don’t know the whole details, but it’s caused a bit of a rift between the Bettanys and the Maynards. I don’t think Aunt Jo and Uncle Jack will even come to the wedding but we’ll see.”

“Oh how awful,” Mary-Lou replied, “You were all such a close family.”

“Yes, well. I don’t see why Rix doesn’t want to join the San. It’d pay a lot more and there’s nothing really keeping him in London. I’m going to be running the Welsh San from July – I’m just having an extra year’s training at Guy’s - and I’ve offered him a place there, but he turned that down as well.”

Rix came back with the drinks, but he hadn’t heard their conversation. David at once started to talk about Sybil, his new nephew and the trip he planned to take to Australia next year.

#32: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 10:42 am

Ooh goody - family tensions. Very Happy

This is really excellent, Mia!

#33: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 11:18 am

Why should he follow into the family firm? He has every right to carve his own path!!! Rolling Eyes

#34: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 11:49 am

Pat wrote:

Why should he follow into the family firm? He has every right to carve his own path!!! Rolling Eyes

Agree with Pat - nice to see Rix is independent. What is he specialising in? I'm liking Mary-Lou in this a lot, and am feeling very sorry for her.
Thanks, Mia.

#35: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 12:17 pm

I guess Rix wants to make his own way in his carear and not get any helping hands.
More soon please Very Happy

#36: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 1:32 pm

I am really enjoying this, thanks Mia. Looking forward to learning more family gossip and dynamics!

#37: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 2:04 pm

Wow, what a lot of posts. Thank you Mia, I'm really enjoying this.

#38: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 4:35 pm

It's really nice to see the 'next generation' grown up and independent. We never saw anything really of David or Rix - mere boys, of course Wink

Rix sounds interesting in this and I'm really enjoying a very human ML!

Great story Mia and very original - I don't think we've had one like this before.

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

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 5:49 pm

Just read all of this - I'm hooked! Thanks Mia, really great start to the story. Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 5:59 pm

This is looking really good - thankyou Mia

#41: Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 6:13 pm

This is really great. I hope we get to both know Rix and David a lot better. I like OOAOML and I'm glad to see her at her most 'real' in this too.

#42: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 6:33 pm

Ooo - am liking this one Very Happy

Looking forward to seeing where you're going it.

Poor Mary-Lou. Gerald sounds like an a**e.

#43: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 6:54 pm

Thank you Mia! Just started reading this and I'm hooked! It's FAB!! Please can we have some more soon! (how cheeky!) I'm loving your OOAO like never before! Nice to see some dimension to David and Rix and Jo being rubbishy rubbish as usual! Stroppy mare!!
Hannah X

#44: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 10:29 am

Mary-Lou took the Underground back to her small but comfortable flat near Regent’s Park. David had offered to see her home after their drink – Rix had had to leave before the two of them - but she’d told him it was too far from his own rooms near London Bridge. She had felt he was flirting with her throughout the lunch and she didn’t yet feel ready to get involved with anyone else, let alone the nephew of arguably her closest friend.

Once she was home, she found her writing-pad and wrote to Maeve, congratulating her on the forthcoming wedding and apologising for losing touch. She also wrote a small amount about the break-up with Gerard, but didn’t mentioned the fact that he’d been married. It felt far too humiliating.

She also wrote to Joey Maynard, wondering if David had been correct and there was a rift within the Bettany-Russell-Maynard clan. She didn’t mention it in her letter, judging it to be none of her business.

***

The next morning she had to return to work.

‘I wish I hadn’t to go in,’ she thought as she got dressed. Her eye fell on the bag containing Gerard’s things that she’d packed up the night before. There was nothing of great importance, just a change of clothes, pyjamas and his shaving things. A teddy bear he’d won for her from the day trip they’d taken to the seaside that she’d held for a long time as she cried over Gerard.

She posted the letters on her way to the Museum and when she arrived, marched straight to her office with her head held high. Most of her colleagues were unfriendly to her, Gerard had always said it was jealousy that she’d become a curator so young, and Mary-Lou knew all too well how some of them would rejoice at the situation she now found herself in.

She had hoped she could get there without being spotted, unfortunately she found her colleague, Lily Ross, waiting outside her office door, a cup of coffee in her hand. Mary-Lou's heart sank down to her shoes.

“Mary-Lou! I was wondering if you’d come in today,” she said at once, her voice was full of fake sympathy. “Poor you. Mr Ellingham came in to see the Director today and he said that you were feeling poorly and might not be in. What’s wrong?”

“Oh, I had a headache, but I’m fine now, thank you.” Mary-Lou felt annoyed. Why was Gerard telling her colleagues she was ill? Did he think she would be too ashamed to show her face at work? What business was it of his anyway? She concentrated on Lily, who was a gossip, determined not to give her any ammunition.

“Is Gerard still with Anthony?” she asked, as casually as she could.

“Oh no, he’s gone.” Lily frowned at Mary-Lou calling the great Sir Anthony Melton, the Museum Director, by his first name. Honestly, it was so infuriating the way this girl – Lily was a good six years older – insisted on treating her senior colleagues like friends. What was even more maddening was that they seemed to like it! She opened her mouth to articulate this, but Mary-Lou just smiled, wished her goodbye in that calm way of hers and shut the door firmly in Lily’s face.

*Edited to remove an Ellington/Ellingham EBDism - oops, sorry!

Last edited by Mia on Fri Apr 29, 2005 10:42 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 10:46 am

Good for Mary Lou - hope she's recovered enough to be able to tell pr*t Gerard exactly what she thinks of him - in front of the boss and everything!!!

Wonder if the reason everyone was unfriendly was because of her affair - they may have thought she knew the pr*t was married.

Thanks Mia.

#46: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 10:48 am

Good luck Mary-Lou! (can't believe I just wrote that)

#47: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 11:00 am

love the way M-L hasn't changed and treats her boss the same way as she did the mistresses at school!

#48: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 11:47 am

Excellent update Mia - though Gerard really is horrible (perhaps he thinks he's getting his own back for Mary-Lou having "made a scene" at the Savoy, no less).
*boos Lily and her fake sympathy*

#49: Author: Jodi, Location: Glasgow most of the time

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 1:17 pm

I like her! A lot. Which feels a little odd...
I wonder if she's going to do her usual butting in thing and heal the Bettany/Maynard/Russell rift?

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

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 5:35 pm

really looking forward to more of this

#51: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 6:30 pm

Mia wrote:

Honestly, it was so infuriating the way this girl – Lily was a good six years older – insisted on treating her senior colleagues like friends. What was even more maddening was that they seemed to like it!

Am also glad she carries this on! makes her seem more normal! (was liking and feeling a little bit too sorry for her before which was strange!) I'd hate to work with someone like that!!!!

Thank you for more Mia! now er more please!!!

#52: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 6:54 pm

Am really enjoying this - more as soon as possible please!

#53: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 7:08 pm

Thanks, Mia. It's lovely to see David and Rix as real characters and I can imagine Mary Lou getting into just such a situation as she would have been totally unprepared for a lying prat like Gerard!

#54: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 7:30 pm

love this especially seeing the boys
looking forward to more

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

Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 10:21 pm

*pokes Lily*

I bet the whole office knew he was married, and he knew they knew and poor Mary-Lou didn't.

Shocked

what's happening? I'm sticking up for OOAOML! Surprised

#56: Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 12:27 pm

Really enjoying this, Mia.

More, please!

#57: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 12:50 pm

Here's some more...!
Can i just say I know less than EBD on the subject of medicine, surgery, doctors, etc, so you'll have to permit me some artistic license! PS This drabble is not going the way I intended AT ALL!

***
South of the river, Rix Bettany peeled off his surgical gloves and threw them into a bucket. He felt exhausted already and it was only ten o’clock. It was hard work assisting Francis Rayner, who was demanding, quick-tempered and also liked to schedule as many operations as he could in the shortest time possible, but Rix admired his dedication to the NHS and Rayner in turn appreciated Rix’s intelligence and willingness to work hard, so the the two of them got on reasonably well. Certainly Rayner tolerated Rix more than any other junior doctor in the hospital, most of whom loathed Rayner’s sarcasm.

Rayner finished his conversation with the anathesathist and came over to the sink.

“That was good work, Richard. Can you write up the case notes – and those for the child with the tumour on her spine from yesterday? I can’t remember if I asked you for those or not.”

“I did them last night, sir. They’re in the office.”

“Excellent. Now, we’ve got another one at three, very similar case except for the size – would you be prepared to lead it?”

“Really?”

“Of course. I think you’re ready and it’s straightforward enough. I’ll be here. It’s all good experience for your MRCS. We’ve certainly put in the clinical hours.” Rayner gave a rueful laugh.

“Thank you, I’ll do my best.” Rix was inwardly ecstatic. Praise from Rayner was high praise indeed. Rayner smiled.

“Was your friend all right?” he asked.

“Who – oh, Mary-Lou? I think so.” Rix was surprised, he and Rayner never never had personal conversations.

“Pretty girl, that.” Rayner said, looking at him in a direct way.

“I think David would agree with you, sir.” Rix replied, unable to meet his eye.

Rayner frowned. He spent one day a month at Guy’s Hospital and had come across David Russell, who was in his opinion, lazy and too fond of nights out drinking and partying with his friends. He opened his mouth to say something, but then remembered that David was Rix’s cousin and changed the subject back to the operation Rix would perform that afternoon.

#58: Author: Jodi, Location: Glasgow most of the time

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 1:16 pm

hmm, the rivalry thickens!

#59: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 1:24 pm

Mia wrote:

PS This drabble is not going the way I intended AT ALL!

Mark of a good writer, that. Whether it's doing what you want or not, it's still excellent - thank you! Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 1:50 pm

This is so good, you are making me like ML and its nice to see David and Rix all growm up Very Happy

#61: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 2:33 pm

Mary-Lou worked solidly throughout the day, clearing most of her administrative work. She was thankful that she had no tours or lectures booked and could therefore hide herself away. She had stopped herself wondering why Gerard had been in to see the Director before she drove herself mad. Gerard was a wealthy financier and he had supported a great deal of the Museum’s exhibitions and expeditions, as well as making charitable donations to many causes that interested him. Mary-Lou blinked away the threatened tears, determined not to act like a spineless jellyfish* and wondered how long it would take to think of him without hurting.

A knock on her door startled her and she called for whoever it was to come in.

Billy the postboy entered grinning, carrying two enormous bouquets of flowers.

--------------------
* Just had to have that phrase in!

#62: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 2:44 pm

I like Rix for going into the National Health instead of taking a cushy number with the family. A bit concerned about David. Is he playing "oldest son of the family therefore I can do what I like?"
It's really good. Thanks Mia

#63: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 3:28 pm

“Thank you, Billy,” she said, stunned.

“They all turned up at once, Miss Trelawney. There’s another one downstairs but I couldn’t carry ‘em all.” He said, leaving to presumably fetch the third.

Mary-Lou opened the first of the cards.

‘It was lovely to see you again and it would be great to have dinner one night next week – look forward to hearing from you, David.’

The second one was even more of a surprise.

‘Delighted to make your acquaintance yesterday and I do hope your problems have been resolved. With kind regards, Sir Robert Welles.’

She put the cards down on her desk, smiling at the loveliness of the flowers. Sir Robert Welles’s bouquet of white roses and lilies was especially exquisite. How kind of him, and of David too.

Billy brought up the third, which was a small bunch of tulips, her favourites. She knew instantly from whom they had come. She opened the card at once, leaving Billy to sort out the flowers and read the message.

‘I can’t tell you how sorry I am – I wouldn’t have hurt you for the world. All my love, always. G.L.R.E.’

“Oh my goodness! Is it someone’s birthday?” Lily asked, walking in and actually picking up one of the cards. “Who’s David? Are you going out for dinner with him?”

Mary-Lou nearly snatched the card back, “He’s an old friend, I know his family. I’ve known them for years.” she snapped, then instantly regretted it.

Lily looked offended. “How pleasant.” She said. “And are all these flowers from him? He must be very keen.” He must be mad, her tone implied.

Mary-Lou didn’t bother to reply. She scrunched up Gerard’s card and threw it into the bin.

“I’ll fetch some water, Miss Trelawney.” Billy offered, desperate to escape from the tense atmosphere.

“Sorry, Lily. I didn’t mean to shout at you. I’m a bit overwrought at the moment.” Mary-Lou apologised, “I do have an awful headache and I’m trying to finish my admin work.”

“That’s okay.” Lily sniffed. “I’m busy myself. I’ll see you later.”

“Bye.” Mary-Lou said, unable to bear it anymore. She decided to go and fetch a glass of water from the kitchen.

Lily followed her out and as soon as Mary-Lou had disappeared down the corridor she dashed back into the office and picked the card out of the wastepaper basket.

She was unable to stifle a gasp as she read the contents.

#64: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 3:49 pm

Lovely! Thank you! x

#65: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 3:52 pm

That Lily looks like being a bit of a stirrer. Grrr.

#66: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 4:13 pm

Why would Lily gasp if she already knew about ML and Gerard???

The plot thickens!!! thanks Mia!

#67: Author: Guest,

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 4:21 pm

Where does it say Lily knows? Have I missed it?

#68: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 4:22 pm

oooh! Great updates thanks Mia.

#69: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 4:29 pm

Guest wrote:

Where does it say Lily knows? Have I missed it?

In a post on page 3:

Mia wrote:

Most of her colleagues were unfriendly to her, Gerard had always said it was jealousy that she’d become a curator so young, and Mary-Lou knew all too well how some of them would rejoice at the situation she now found herself in.

She had hoped she could get there without being spotted, unfortunately she found her colleague, Lily Ross, waiting outside her office door, a cup of coffee in her hand. Mary-Lou's heart sank down to her shoes.

“Mary-Lou! I was wondering if you’d come in today,” she said at once, her voice was full of fake sympathy. “Poor you. Mr Ellington came in to see the Director today and he said that you were feeling poorly and might not be in. What’s wrong?”

“Oh, I had a headache, but I’m fine now, thank you.” Mary-Lou felt annoyed. Why was Gerard telling her colleagues she was ill? Did he think she would be too ashamed to show her face at work? What business was it of his anyway? She concentrated on Lily, who was a gossip, determined not to give her any ammunition.

#70: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 6:25 pm

Thanks Mia!
I really like your Rix! Very Happy

#71: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 6:55 pm

Lily smiled a nasty little smile as she headed back to her own office, the card from Gerard Ellingham’s flowers safely in her pocket. So Janet had been right, Mary-Lou had been dumped.

‘I’ve got you now, Mary-Lou Trelawney,’ she thought.

She had always suspected that Mary-Lou was carrying on with Mr Ellingham – everyone had. There’d been gossip and speculation for years. But he’d been careful not to leave anything that could prove he’d been unfaithful. Until now. There had to be a way Lily could use this to her advantage.

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

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 7:24 pm

she's a really nasty piece of work!!! poke

I really like Rix here, although David doesn't sound too appealing - I hope ML doens't fall for the wrong cousin!

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

Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 8:30 pm

That Lily is a really nasty piece of work - hope Mary Lou can squash her flat.

This is excellent Mia, thank you.

#74: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 9:02 am

Oh boo hiss to Lily. Poor ML, think she's about to find herself in a whole heap of trouble at work - or being blackmailed, one of the two.

And the plot thickens with David and Rix - and now Robert Welles added to the equation!! Shocked

Thanks Mia, this is really good. Very Happy

#75: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 1:20 pm

Mary-Lou wrote to thank David and Sir Robert for their flowers, but didn’t communicate with Gerard. There was simply nothing to say.

***

A fortnight later, she was walking along the platform at Waterloo Station to get on the Penzance train. Maeve had replied to her note with a wonderful long letter, full of warmth and sympathy and had invited her to the Quadrant for a weekend.

‘Daddy’s had to take things easy since his little turn, so we’ve been rather quiet.’ Maeve had written, ‘but if you could make it for a weekend, that would be wonderful! I’d love the opportunity to see you again. The wedding is such a nightmare, and Freddie’s mother is the outside of enough! (burn this letter!) Mummy’s been in Canada for what seems like years and my only other female companion is Daphne, an eight year old! PLEASE COME SOON!’

Mary-Lou heard the guard blowing a warning on his whistle, so hurried into her compartment quickly.

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

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 1:55 pm

Glad Maeve has written, sounds as though she needs a friend to fight off Freddie's mother! - thank you Mia. Laughing

#77: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 3:08 pm

Oh poor old Maeve. Love her telling ML to burn the letter! Laughing

#78: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 4:51 pm

Oh bless! Hope Mary-Lou is a help to Maeve!

#79: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 11:40 pm

Have just read this from the beginning. It is really good. ML seems true to the CS books though she doesn't seem good at picking men! Looking forward to her visit to the Quadrant.

#80: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Sun May 01, 2005 7:43 am

Ooh, the Quadrant! Yay!

(Why is Mollie Bettany in Canada?)

#81: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun May 01, 2005 8:59 am

Lily needs a good slap!. Looking forward to more revelations as to the family row. Also looking forward to seeing The Quadrant and Maeve.

#82: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Sun May 01, 2005 1:57 pm

Poor Maeve! looking forward to reading about Mary-Lou's visit.

#83: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 01, 2005 6:02 pm

It was fairly late in the afternoon when the train reached Sheepheys Junction. Mary-Lou gathered her things together and jumped down to the platform. Maeve had promised to collect her, due to the scarcity of trains to Channing St Mary.

Maeve was waiting on the end of the platform with Daphne, both of them were waving madly. Mary-Lou waved back at once.

“Mary-Lou! How are you? It’s so nice to see you again! This is Daphne, she insisted on coming to meet you as well, you’ve met her before haven’t you?” Maeve said at once, giving Mary-Lou a warm hug.

“Hello Maeve, hello Daphne! I last saw you when you were about three, I think,” Mary-Lou smiled.

“Hello.” Daphne replied, shyly, trying to hide behind Maeve, who laughed and started to talk to Mary-Lou about her plans for their weekend. She looked happy and very pretty, with her bronze curls tumbling over her shoulders. Daphne was a pretty child also, with a strong resemblance to Madge Russell.

“I’ve got Daddy’s car – oh, I couldn’t wait for this weekend! It’s going to be marvellous to catch up. I say, you mustn’t tell Freddie I’ve been driving, I’m supposed to get one of the men on the estate to drive me if I want to go anywhere.”

“Why on earth?” Mary-Lou asked, startled out of politeness.

“Because I’m such a rotten driver! Jackie taught me on the estate the summer I left school, but I was hopeless, he gave up on me! But I carried on with it, and I passed that stupid test – it took me eight tries but I did it. And the next day I smashed Dad’s car into a tree. Was he furious! But he calmed down eventually. I can’t wait for you to meet Freddie, he’s wonderful!”

Maeve chattered on as the three of them reached the car park. Daphne gave a squeal and pulling her hand out of Maeve’s, she dashed to the car where Rix was stood, his bag next to him. He laughed and picked the small girl up to hug her.

“Hello! I thought that was our car. I thought a minor miracle had occurred and I’d actually been met by the welcome committee instead of having to walk home like I usually do. Mary-Lou, we must’ve been on the same train. It’s nice to see you again. Hi Maeve.” He kissed his sister, and shook hands with Mary-Lou.

“You never tell us when you’re coming home, that’s why.” Maeve retorted.

“True, but then I hardly ever know in advance when I can take the time off. Are you staying for the weekend, Mary-Lou?”

“Yes, I am. I’m looking forward to seeing the dear old Quadrant again.”

“Well, I’m not looking forward to this journey – crashed into any more trees lately, Maeve?” he teased, putting Daphne down and taking Mary-Lou’s case from her.

“You’re so mean! But you can drive if you want.”

“I was joking, you’ll be fine. I suppose we should make a move.”

“Yes, or Daddy might be worried. Mary-Lou, will you sit next to Rix in the back?”

“I want to sit next to Rix.” Daphne said, glaring at Mary-Lou.

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

Posted: Sun May 01, 2005 6:13 pm

So Mary Lou and Rix will be together for a weekend? Hmmmmmm!

Lovely update, thanks Mia.

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

Posted: Sun May 01, 2005 10:00 pm

Just read all of this Mia and am hooked.

Looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Liz

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

Posted: Mon May 02, 2005 2:09 pm

*giggles at Maeve and her driving*

Im also very interested in what may happen this weekend Very Happy

Thanks Mia

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

Posted: Mon May 02, 2005 6:13 pm

Quote:

“I want to sit next to Rix.” Daphne said, glaring at Mary-Lou.

oooh-er Daphne sounds a bit spoilt!!

looking forward to more of this weekend (and a nice long country walk for ML and Rix, maybe?)

#88: Author: Guest,

Posted: Mon May 02, 2005 6:40 pm

Personally I think that the quiet chap doctor bloke is the one to watch

#89: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 02, 2005 7:27 pm

Oh dear, can see Daphne's going to be a problem!

thanks Mia Very Happy

#90: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Mon May 02, 2005 10:00 pm

Josie wrote:

Oh dear, can see Daphne's going to be a problem!

my thoughts exactly!

#91: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 02, 2005 10:29 pm

Mary-Lou looked at Daphne in surprise. The little girl tossed her long, dark curls defiantly, all traces of shyness gone. Maeve had told Mary-Lou that Daphne was eight, but she looked more like six. She was obviously a delicate child and Mary-Lou was suddenly reminded of Margot Maynard.

“I hope Daphne hasn’t got a Devil!” she thought, trying to suppress a grin.

“That’s not very polite, Daphne, Mary-Lou is our guest,” Rix said, mildly. Daphne immediately looked upset and her eyes filled with tears. It was clear she adored her eldest brother.

“Come on, Daph, get in the car.” Rix said, exasperated.

“Will you sit next to me?” Daphne asked, sniffing pathetically.

“Come on then!” Rix said, opening the front passenger door for Mary-Lou, who got in and thanked him, before jumping into the back with Daphne.

Maeve’s driving was fast and erratic, so the seven miles to the Quadrant passed quickly.

“Did you say you normally walk from the station to the Quadrant, Rix? It must be miles.” Mary-Lou commented.

“It’s about seven miles. I quite like the walk, gives me space to think. I do quite a lot of walking when I’m home.” Rix said. “On the cliffs mostly.”

“What do you think about?” Daphne asked, happy now she’d got her own way.

Rix laughed, embarrassed. “Operations, mostly. Very boring, I’m afraid, sweetheart. Anyway, what have you planned for the weekend, Maeve?”

“Well, just a quiet night tonight, and tomorrow Freddie’s taking us out for a drive and we’ll go to Brentford Hall for dinner. Other than that, we’ll just hang around the Quadrant, go for some walks, whatever you want, Mary-Lou. It’s probably too cold for swimming, but we can go for some nice walks on the beach. Oh look, there’s Daddy!”

Maeve swerved in front of the house, scattering gravel and the four of them got out.

Dick Bettany looked fine, much healthier than Mary-Lou had expected from David’s comments and the younger Bettanys’ obvious concern. He was exactly as Mary-Lou remembered and very welcoming.

Rix carried her bag up to a pretty guest bedroom with Daphne as his shadow, and Maeve took her off to the drawing room for afternoon tea and a good long chat.

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

Posted: Mon May 02, 2005 11:20 pm

Thanks Mia - Rix sounds nicer and nicer the more you tell us about him.

Liz

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

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 3:07 am

Also loving Rix, and glad Dick Bettany is healthier than mary Lou thought. Daphne sounds a handful though - and used to tears getting her own way.

Thanks Mia. Laughing

#94: Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 6:53 am

Why is Mollie Bettany in Canada? Have I missed something?

#95: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 7:07 am

Good morning!

JoW asked:

Quote:

Why is Mollie Bettany in Canada? Have I missed something?

From page 1 (David talking to OOAO in the Savoy)

Quote:

"Yep. Aunt Mollie’s gone to see Peggy in Canada again but she’ll be back for the wedding. Peggy’s had another daughter, my godchild. Bride’s expecting in September... Oh, and my parents have emigrated to Australia for good now that the twins are away at school. Sybil’s had a son...”

Hope that clears it up!
Mx

#96: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 10:33 am

so enjoying this. I think Rix is going to be very nice, but David possibly a bit of a sleaze... Hope M-L picks the right one....

And also hope that the nasty Lily doesn't cause too much trouble for her.

thanks mia!

#97: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 10:45 am

I am also really enjoying this, thanks Mia.

#98: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 11:44 am

Thanks! Here's a bit more...
-----------------------------------------------------

Uncle Dick looks really well,” Mary-Lou said, “I thought he’d been ill?”

“Yes, did Rix tell you? He had a heart attack last Christmas when Aunt Joey and Uncle Jack came to visit. It was only a tiny one though and he’s fine now, more or less. It’ll be better when Maurice finishes national service and comes home, he’ll take over the running of the estate you see.”

“Good. And is Daphne ok? She looks quite frail.” Mary-Lou asked, carefully. In her schooldays she had gained a reputation as chief butter-in amongst her peers but on this occasion Maeve didn’t mind her questions. She knew her Mary-Lou!

“She had a bad doing of bronchitis and it’s left her with asthma. She has awful attacks sometimes and can’t breathe. That’s why we pet her a bit. I’m sorry she was rude to you in the car, but Mother and Dad have had to give into her demands, almost from the word ‘go’, otherwise she frets and gets ill. I suppose the fact that she’s so much younger as well means she’s been a bit spoilt. I remember how awful Maurice and I were when we first came over from India, but the others squashed us. I suppose it’s different for Daph, as we weren’t here except in the holidays and I’m often out and about even now. She should go to a decent school really, but she’s been too ill. I know Mother wouldn’t part with her, but Dad thinks she could go to Glendower House when she’s ten, as long as she improves as she is doing. She’s much better than she was before I came back home.”

“She should go to the Gornetz Platz.” Mary-Lou suggested, without thinking. “Jack could look after her and you know how motherly Joey can be.”

Maeve looked away, “It’s not possible at the moment. But as I said, she’s much better now than she was. Rix comes home when he can and he doesn’t take any nonsense from her even if I’m a bit soft. And she was very upset when Dad was ill. Have you – kept in touch with Aunt Jo?”

Mary-Lou shook her head, “You know me, always the world’s worst correspondent. I wrote to her a few weeks ago, but I’ve not heard back.”

Inwardly she was agog to know what was wrong between the Bettanys and the Maynards. David had spoken of a rift but it must be extremely serious to make the usually jolly Maeve look so upset.

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

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 11:52 am

*very intrigued*

Thank you for the lovely update Mia. what has happened to make the Bettany's fall out with the Maynards? and most importantly is M-L going sort it all out?

Please tell us!

#100: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 1:08 pm

Mary-Lou couldn’t bear it any longer, “Maeve, please tell me to mind my own business if you want to, but what’s happened? You used to be such a close family and now there’s obviously something wrong - is there anything I can do to help?”

“Oh, Mary-Lou, it's just dreadful. There was an awful row last Christmas. Uncle Jack and Aunt Joey said that Rix…” Maeve stopped speaking abruptly as they heard footsteps coming towards the drawing room.

“Is there anything left to eat? I’m absolutely starving,” Rix said cheerfully, before noticing Maeve’s expression. “What’s wrong?”

#101: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 1:16 pm

Alright, that's the first time in this drabble that I haven't been glad to see Rix!

Thanks Mia, though I'll be even more greatful when we know what's wrong with the family! Wink

#102: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 1:30 pm

AGGHH!!!!!!!! What a moment to choose Rix!

Please let us know soon Mia. Loving this by the way!

#103: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 3:13 pm

I see Mia has aready done the course on writing cliffs - and earned a diploma with merit Wink

Rix, we love you dearly but Go Away!

Thanks Mia.

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

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 3:49 pm

*stamps foot*

That was a mean cliff - it didn't seem like it was going to be a cliff at all!

More asap, Mia!

#105: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 6:16 pm

Ann wrote:

*stamps foot*

That was a mean cliff - it didn't seem like it was going to be a cliff at all!

*agrees with Ann*

*stamps foot too*

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

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 6:18 pm

Nice cliff Mia! Wink

#107: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 8:11 pm

Don't encourage her! Evil or Very Mad

thank you but Wink

we need more please!

#108: Author: Chris, Location: Nottingham

Posted: Tue May 03, 2005 8:13 pm

I can't believe your've left us hanging there! can't wait for some more.

#109: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 12:04 pm

Maeve tried to appear nonchalant and failed utterly. “Oh, nothing. Just - Freddie’s mother.” She gave a little laugh. “You won’t believe what a dragon she is, Mary-Lou.”

Mary-Lou felt a little shocked at Maeve’s fib; she hoped it didn’t show on her face. Rix was looking right at her and she could feel herself starting to blush.

“Lady Brentford is an unpleasant person.” Rix agreed, sitting down and helping himself to a sandwich. “But you look really upset and she isn’t worth it really, is she? She’s just an insecure and lonely old woman. Anyway, you won’t see that much of her when you’re married, you’ll be with Freddie in London.”

“Will you be in London? Oh Maeve, that will be wonderful!” Mary-Lou said, happily. “Does Freddie work there? What does he do?”

“He works in the City, but I don’t know exactly what he does.” Maeve said, doubtfully.

Rix laughed, “He’s a financier, Maeve. You are hopeless. He invests in firms and deals on the stock market, things like that." He turned to Mary-Lou. "You know, like Geoffrey Drake and Gerard Ellingham and that lot. He’s got enough money to keep even Maeve in new clothes.”

Maeve stuck her tongue out at him, childishly, but Mary-Lou froze.

“Do you know Gerard Ellingham?” she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

#110: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 12:44 pm

Oh God a double cliff! Shocked

#111: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 1:04 pm

that is just mean!!!
hope that gerard isn't going to be best man Shocked

#112: Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 1:09 pm

Mia!!

Don't leave us with a hanging like this!!

Really hoping Maeve isn't friends with Louise (Gerards wife - I think that was her name?).

#113: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 1:50 pm

What a shock for ML!

Cliffs and mysteries galore!

Thank you.

*settles down to wait for more*

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

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 2:04 pm

Oooooh things get more intriguing and complicated! Poor ML though, having mentions and memories everywhere.

Thanks Mia Very Happy

#115: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 2:43 pm

One cliff sort of resolved... Twisted Evil

------------------------------------------

But Rix shook his head.

“Not really, I’ve only met him a few times. We don’t exactly move in the same circles in London. Rayner knows him from school and he’s trying to set up a committee to get some funding for our hospital. We want to build a new wing for children who have, well, a certain type of cancer of the brain or spine and we need some private donations. It’s an NHS hospital, so we haven’t got any money. Do you know him then?”

“He funds some of the exhibitions at the Museum.” Mary-Lou managed. She felt as if she would faint.

“Oh, I’m so glad you do know him. Freddie asked me to invite him to the wedding,” Maeve commented, starting to clear away the plates.

“How lovely.” Mary-Lou said, weakly.

“And back to the social event of the year,” Rix joked, handing his teacup over. “I think I’ll leave you to it and go to the estate office. Dad wanted me to look through the accounts with him. Are you all right, Mary-Lou? You look a bit pale.”

“Oh Mary-Lou, I’m so sorry!” Maeve wailed. “Here I am talking about the wedding when you’ve just broken up with your fiancé!”

“He wasn’t my fiancé – it wasn’t serious. Don’t be silly, Maeve, of course I want to hear all about the wedding. I think I’m just a bit tired. I didn’t sleep well last night and it was a long journey.”

Maeve looked more cheerful and started to discuss the bridesmaids' dresses. Mary-Lou fixed a smile to her face and tried to listen, but she wanted to escape to her room as soon as possible.

#116: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 3:35 pm

Well that one wasn't a cliff (and thank you for resolving it before I'd even found the cliff Very Happy

) but it doesn't leave me feeling very confident. Poor Mary-Lou!

Thanks Mia.

#117: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 4:15 pm

Yikes! Gerard at the wedding Evil or Very Mad

#118: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 4:23 pm

That does sound fun! Gerard + presumably his wife at the wedding. Shocked

#119: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 4:35 pm

I'm actually feeling sorry for Mary Lou here.

Thank you, Mia. I'm really enjoying this story.

#120: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Wed May 04, 2005 9:32 pm

Thank you Mia!

Poor Mary-Lou!!!

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

Posted: Thu May 05, 2005 12:56 am

Poor Mary Lou!

(although, I can't wait for ratbag Gerard's shocked reaction when he sees her at the wedding! He'll probably be terrified of his wife finding out!!!)

#122: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu May 05, 2005 8:47 am

Oh lordy, poor Mary-Lou! Hoping someone shows Gerald what for at the wedding when they find out what he's done. But I presume he'll bring Lousie with him?!! Shocked

And what did Joey and Jack say about Rix?

thanks Mia Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu May 05, 2005 12:57 pm

Thanks for the updates Mia.

Please tell us what Jack & Jo said about Rix.

*starts to prepare the blunt rusty scissors in case we need them for Gerard*

Liz

#124: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Thu May 05, 2005 1:56 pm

Thanks Mia
Would it be greedy to ask for more?

*reminds herself never to get on the wrong side of Liz....*

#125: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Thu May 05, 2005 3:20 pm

Thanks Mia. Poor Mary-Lou hi=ow horrible for her. Hope nasty Gerard gets a shock at the wedding when he sees how well connected to the family Mary-Lou is.

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

Posted: Thu May 05, 2005 7:39 pm

Hope Mary Lou can be as quashing as she knows how at the wedding - hopefully with a handsome doctor on her arm! Laughing

Thanks Mia.

#127: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Thu May 05, 2005 7:46 pm

Rix or David?
At least I missed one cliff!
Thank you Mia (and always waiting for more!)

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

Posted: Thu May 05, 2005 10:15 pm

I go away for one night and this is what happens?!!!

*oh what a tangled web Mia has woven for us*

more please....and soon!

#129: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 12:20 pm

Wow, so many updates in my week away - lovely to catch up. Maeve is sweet, and so is Rix (Daphne needs sorting out a bit). PLEASE tell us what the rift is - I'm very intrigued.
*joins Liz preparing rusty implements for Gerard - secateurs, perhaps*

Thanks, Mia.

#130: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 12:38 pm

I want to know why Dick and Mollie have quarrelled with Jo.

Please imagine begging smiley.

#131: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 2:53 pm

Sorry this has been a while coming!

The next morning, Mary-Lou awoke very early. She hunted for her watch and was surprised to see it was only five.

‘I’ll get up and go for a walk,’ she thought, throwing back the covers and running some water into the basin in the pretty bedroom. She loathed her bed except when strictly necessary and especially when it promised to be a pleasant April morning.

She opened her door, expecting to be the only person awake, and saw Dick Bettany. He grinned at her.

“Good morning!” he said in low tones. “You’re up early.”

“I woke up and couldn’t go back to sleep. It looks beautiful outside, so I thought I’d go out.”

“I always like to look over the animals at this time. You know we’ve got livestock, don’t you. I say, you won’t wake the others will you? Daphne’s already up but I want the other two to catch up on some sleep.”

“OK. Can I help you around the farm?”

“I’ll give you the tour if you like.”

Downstairs Mary-Lou put on borrowed Wellingtons and walked to the farm with Dick. The Quadrant’s grounds were large and the farm a good fifteen minutes’ walk away. They chattered about Mary-Lou’s work and about Dick’s grandchildren, and then Mary-Lou changed the subject to how beautiful she thought Devonshire was.

“Do you prefer it to London?” Dick asked.

“I used to love London, but now – well, I’ve recently started to realise how lonely it can be. I don’t seem to have any real friends there anymore.”

“No, it can be a lonely place.” Dick agreed. “I didn’t think Rix would stay there as long as he has. I rather hoped he’d decide to go into general practice and work around here – but still, it’s his choice, not mine.”

“Didn’t you think he’d work in the San?” Mary-Lou asked, remembering how she had resolved to help Maeve by trying to mend the quarrel in the family.

But Dick changed the subject back to the farm and the next minute they reached the henhouses and found Daphne waiting for them. The subject didn’t arise again.

Last edited by Mia on Sun May 08, 2005 3:47 pm; edited 1 time in total

#132: Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 3:03 pm

Quote:

The next morning, Mary-Lou awoke very early. He hunted for her watch and was surprised to see it was only five.

Blimey, OOAO is a fast mover! Wink

Thanks, Mia.

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 3:21 pm

Thanks Mia, good to see that Dick is well after his health problems, but obviously not wanting to talk about the family politics!

#134: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 3:48 pm

Quote:

Blimey, OOAO is a fast mover!

Ha ha - I've corrected it - I am just rubbish at typing!!! Embarassed

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 3:58 pm

Really really intrigued about the cause of the quarrel - very telling that Dick changed the subject.

Thanks Mia. Laughing

#136: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 4:50 pm

Really curious over the cause of the quarral!

#137: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 5:09 pm

Nice to see Dick. He really didn't get much look in in the books.

Another one expiring of curiosity about the cause of the rift!

#138: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 7:02 pm

oooooh i want to know about the rift!

More please! Very Happy

#139: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 7:14 pm

aitchemelle wrote:

oooooh i want to know about the rift!

More please! Very Happy

Me too!

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 10:14 pm

Also very curious

Thanks Mia

Liz

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 10:42 pm

nikkie wrote:

aitchemelle wrote:

oooooh i want to know about the rift!

More please! Very Happy

Me too!

me three!!!!!

please do tell us soon!

#142: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 11:17 pm

“Would you like to come and feed the hens with me?” Daphne asked, slipping her hand into Mary-Lou’s own. “It’s my job on the farm.”

“I’d love to.” Mary-Lou smiled at the small girl.

“Well, I’ll leave you ladies to it and go and check with the men in the cattle yard. Breakfast is at eight today, but do get something from Cook if you’re hungry, Mary-Lou.” Dick left them together.

Daphne chattered on eagerly about her hens and about the Quadrant generally.

“Are you looking forward to going to school, Daphne?” Mary-Lou asked when she could get a word in edgeways.

“I don’t go to school, Miss Trevannion comes here on her bicycle every day. Not weekends though. I might go to school next year but I don’t know.”

“The Chalet School? Will you go to Wales or Switzerland?”

“I don’t think I’m going there.” Daphne said, uncertainly.

“Not go to the Chalet School?” Mary-Lou failed to hide her amazement, “But – why on earth not?”

Daphne coughed, then said, “I’m not going to that horrid school. Auntie Madge told Daddy I should go, but I cried and he said I didn’t have to.”

“But – it’s not a horrid school, Daphne, it’s a marvellous one. I should know, I had eight years of it myself. And wouldn’t you like to see Switzerland and have all the fun of ski-ing? Not to mention having so many other girls to play with. And you could see your Auntie Jo and Cecil and Phil…” Mary-Lou continued, thoughtlessly.

Daphne coughed again and went pink. She threw the bucket of feed down on the ground, sending the hens clucking, and stamped her foot.

“I told you! I’m not going to Switzerland! I hate it! And I hate Auntie Jo!” She cried, then seemed to choke and collapsed onto the floor, struggling for breath…

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 11:20 pm

Hmmm, how much of that is temper and how much asthma? And if it is asthma - she could be allergic to the animals!

Thanks Mia. Laughing

#144: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 11:46 pm

Very curious about this argument!

Thanks Mia. Glad Dick seems to be better. And hope Daphne's okay, even if she is a spoiled brat!

#145: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 6:02 am

Whatever the rift is, it's obviously got Daphne upset.

Poor Daphne. It's horrid when children get mixed up in family feuds.

I'm beginning to make wild guesses here

Shocked

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

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 7:24 am

Thanks Mia

Please tell us what the problem is before I expire from curiosity.

Liz

#147: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 8:27 am

Maybe the Maynard children caused Daphne to become ill once and that helped to stem the feud...

#148: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 9:54 am

so many guesses - think you should put us out of our misery, Mia! Wink

hope daph is ok though.

#149: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 3:32 pm

hope this isn't too long a post Smile

For an instant, Mary-Lou was frozen to the spot in horror. Then her innate common sense took over and she crouched next to Daphne, helping her to sit up and calling for help at the same time. Daphne could breathe, just about, but her obvious panic was making the situation worse.

“It’s OK, Daphne. Try to calm down.” Mary-Lou soothed, though inwardly she felt just as terrified. What on earth was she to do if Daphne had a full-blown attack?

Luckily, someone had heard her shout and the next minute, Dick was running towards the henhouses.

“She just – couldn’t breathe.” Mary-Lou said.

Dick nodded, “I know. Come on, Daffy, try and breathe. I’m going to take you back to the house. Do you need your medication?” He took her from Mary-Lou and swung her up in his arms, carrying her away from the hens and towards the path back to the Quadrant.

Daphne started to cry, “Don’t want - to go to Switzerland, Daddy,” she managed. Dick found her inhaler in the pocket of her coat and gave it to her.

“What are you talking about, darling? Nobody says you have to go to Switzerland.”

“She did! But I’m never going there! You promised!”

“I know I did. You aren’t going there, you’re staying with Mummy and me. Now calm down, please. You know what happens when you get upset and it worries us. Now I’ll take you back to the house and Rix can take a look at you, OK?”

“OK, Daddy.” Daphne said, wiping her eyes.

“I’m so sorry,” Mary-Lou began, “I was talking about the Chalet School – I am sorry, Daphne.”

“It’s fine.” Dick said at once. “It wasn’t a proper asthma attack, thank God. Are you all right?”

Mary-Lou nodded, but she wouldn’t forget the scare Daphne had given her easily.

Back at the Quadrant, Dick laid Daphne down on the drawing-room sofa.

“Could you watch her while I fetch Rix?” Dick asked Mary-Lou, who agreed at once. She was relieved that Dick didn’t blame her for the attack and resolved to hold her tongue in future. How could she have been so careless?

Dick left them alone and Mary-Lou sat on the floor next to Daphne’s sofa, taking hold of her hand.

“Daphne I’m terribly sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you.” She said.

Daphne looked up, listlessly. She was still making faint wheezing noises and her eyes were red. She nodded and gave Mary-Lou a faint smile.

Maeve came downstairs, followed by Rix, and took Mary-Lou off for a cup of coffee in the kitchen, leaving Rix and Dick to see to Daphne.

“Drink this – I can see you’ve had a shock. But it happens all the time. Dad took her to a specialist and he says she’ll grow out of it. What started it off this time?”

“I was just talking to her about school, and then she – well, she flew into a temper and then went all red and couldn’t breathe.”

“Oh, no wonder… She’s got it into her head that she’ll be sent away to school and never come home. Don’t worry about her any more, Mary-Lou. Oh Cook, can we have breakfast early today please? We’re all up, you see. And is there any coffee in the pot?”

Mary-Lou drank her coffee at the kitchen table, only half-listening to Maeve’s reassuring chatter. She felt dreadful.

Rix came into the kitchen and joined them, throwing himself onto a chair and yawning. He looked very tired and needed to shave.

“She’s fine. I don’t even think it was a proper attack.” he said.

“Mary-Lou says she went into one of her rages.” Maeve said, getting up from the table. “I’ll set the table for breakfast if we’re going to have it early.”

“I think it was my fault. I’m sorry.” Mary-Lou said in a quiet voice.

Rix looked at her in surprise, “Of course it wasn’t your fault, why would you think that?”

“David told me there was – well, a row between you and the Maynards. I forgot and spoke to Daphne about going to Switzerland, to the Chalet School. She said she didn’t want to go, and I asked why not – and well, she got upset.” Mary-Lou trailed off, blushing. She felt like the worst kind of busybody that ever existed.

“David told you I’d had a row with the Maynards?”

“Yes. Well, sort of. Not just you, the whole family. Look, Rix – I know it’s none of my business, but if I can help at all – if you need someone to talk to…”

“I don’t think you can help, but I probably owe you an explanation. I don’t want to go into it here because of Dad, but… if you’re free after breakfast we could go for a walk?"

#150: Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 3:52 pm

Mia wrote:

hope this isn't too long a post Smile

Personally I wouldn't have minded if it had've been a bit longer!!
Very Happy

Looking forward to hearing what Rix has to say.

Glad Daphne isn't too ill, but not surprised Mary Lou got a shock!!

#151: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 3:53 pm

Of course it isn't too long Mia. I for one wouldn't mind it it were a lot longer. Or if there was another post soon... Wink

#152: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 3:57 pm

Have to agree - it definitely wasn't too long and more will always be appreciated!

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

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 3:57 pm

Long posts are goooood!!!! and that one was brilliant Very Happy

Im glad Daphne is ok, but I cant help feel she would be better if she wasnt cosetted so much.

So at long last we get to find out about the feud, yay!!

Thanks Mia Very Happy

#154: Author: Guest,

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 3:57 pm

Agrees wholeheartedly with both of above. You can't stop there!! Confused

#155: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 3:59 pm

That guest was me .That's the second time in 24 hours the board has lost me. It's definitely got it in for me. Rolling Eyes

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

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 4:12 pm

Thanks for the post - glad Mary Lou wasn't blamed for the attack - hope we get to hear from Rix soon.

Thanks Mia.

#157: Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 5:41 pm

Mia, I've just caught up on several days of this. It's great, though Daphne seems like a really spoilt brat.

Please let us see what Rix has to say soon - and that definitely wasn't too long a post! It was too short, if anything.

Thank you.

#158: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 6:07 pm

The longer the better I reckon!

Thank you Mia Very Happy

#159: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 6:51 pm

Please let us hear what Rix has to say soon!

#160: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 8:29 pm

Well Mary Lou was being a little silly to forget and push but if it's going to get us an explanation from the lovely Rix then I'm happy Smile

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

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 9:29 pm

ooooh explanation forthcoming?!

please!!!

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

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 11:10 pm

Don't apologise for the length of the post Mia - we like long posts.

Now another one telling us about Rix and Mary-Lou's walk would be just perfect.

Liz

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

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 6:46 am

Just read this from go to woe. And woe it is, you still haven't told us what the row was about!

Hope OOAOML has a nice chat to her nasty ex's wifey.

#164: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 9:47 am

no such thing as too long a post Mia...

now, can M-L have a nice little accident on their walk and Rix save her?
But not until we've found out the cause of the row!

thanks

#165: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 3:22 pm

Wonderful post Mia. Looking forward to hearing about the cause of the rift. Is Daphne ones of those spoilt littl brats that deliberatly throws a tantrum so that it brings on an attack?

#166: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 4:15 pm

Excellent - does this mean we're about to discover what the row was about?
Please say that Daphne's noT going to beg to go along with them!

#167: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 10:15 am

Mary-Lou agreed, and after breakfast, the two of them left for a walk along the Devon cliffs, each wrapped up warmly against the bright but chilly, late April weather.

Neither spoke for the first mile or so, but the silence was companionable. Rix appeared deep in thought and Mary-Lou felt suddenly reluctant to intrude.

“Do you want to go down to the beach? It’s more sheltered.” Rix asked, making her jump. She’d been lost in her own thoughts. She nodded, and followed him down a steep path to the sandy cove beneath the cliff. The tide was out and they walked across the beach.

Mary-Lou looked around with great interest. The beach was small and secluded and must be wonderful in summer. She looked up and saw the west walls of the Quadrant high above.

Rix cleared his throat, “What did David tell you?” he asked.

“He just said that Jack asked you to join the San and you refused. And Maeve said there was a – a row last Christmas.”

“It was the Christmas before last. But that’s basically what happened. He didn’t ask me if I wanted to join, he said there was a place available and when could I go over there. I tried to explain why I couldn’t go, and he got – unpleasant and said some things.”

“What did he say?” Mary-Lou asked, sitting down next to him on the rocks.

“Oh – just how I’d always been selfish, how much of a disappointment I was to Dad and Mother, that kind of thing. I lost my temper and said some awful things back. Mother overheard us and came in, asking what was wrong. Uncle Jack was pretty riled and he started shouting at her. I told him to stop and he turned round – and well, he hit me.”

“I don’t believe it.” Mary-Lou said, shocked.

“Well, he did. He apologised straight away, but Mother was mad, and so was Dad when he found out. There was a huge row and Aunt Jo said something about Mum and Dad dumping us on Aunt Madge to bring up because they couldn’t be bothered. And Dad was under a lot of stress with Daphne and with the estate finances, and he had his heart attack. Mother threw Jack and Jo and all the kids out of the house that night and nobody’s spoken since. The others know something happened, but they don’t know all the details. You won’t mention it, will you?”

“Of course not.” Mary-Lou said at once, her heart going out to Rix. He looked wretched.

"I don't even know why I've told you all this. But it's hard, knowing it's all my fault," he added.

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 10:34 am

Poor Rix, grrrr's at Jack and Joey how could they!!!!!

#169: Author: Beth, Location: Back in Durham...nearly finished a whole year!!

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 10:34 am

Mia, I just wanted to tell you how much I'm enjoying this. I (shock horror) have actually always really liked OOAO, so it's great to see her all grown up!

(((Rix)))

Families, eh - who'd have them!

#170: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 10:49 am

“It’s not your fault.” Mary-Lou said automatically, intending to reassure him. She was shocked by Jack and Jo’s behaviour, it sounded completely out of character. But then again, she hadn’t seen either of them for years and people did change. She wasn’t the same girl she’d been at the Chalet School.

“I could’ve kept my temper. And I should’ve told him I wasn’t going to the San years ago. Maybe I am selfish not to want to work there?”

“It’s your choice, he can’t force you into working there, and they shouldn’t have said those things about your parents not being able to keep you in India.”

“I suppose so. Want to go a bit further along the beach or do you have to get back for your visit to the Brentfords?”

Mary-Lou realised Rix wanted to change the subject. She looked at her watch.

“It’s early still – can we go on? What’s that cave affair over there?” She pointed

“Oh that’s John’s cave – I mean, he found it years ago when we first moved here. We used to play all sorts of games there. Want to see?”

Mary-Lou jumped down from the rock at once. “I'd love to,” she grinned.

Last edited by Mia on Wed May 11, 2005 10:51 am; edited 1 time in total

#171: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 10:51 am

Ooo, lovely, an unexpected bit more. Thanks Mia.

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 10:56 am

Poor Rix, I hope ML makes him realise he is not to blame, it seems such a dreadful thing for Jack and Joey to do, but people do odd things when angry.

Thanks Mia

#173: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 11:04 am

Ally wrote:

Poor Rix, I hope ML makes him realise he is not to blame, it seems such a dreadful thing for Jack and Joey to do, but people do odd things when angry.

Quite right, they do, but why should Rix refusing to work for him make Jack so angry? He's not a control freak under it all, is he?

I do hope Mary-Lou can help Rix feel better about it all. Sad

#174: Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 11:11 am

Ooooh good. A cave. Now the roof can fall in and they can be trapped by the rising tide. Nothing like a nice little crisis to shove the romance along.

#175: Author: Beth, Location: Back in Durham...nearly finished a whole year!!

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 11:14 am

MaryR wrote:

He's not a control freak under it all, is he?

We are talking about the man who sedates his wife at each and every opportunity...

ETA - I've finally started my first lesson!!

#176: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 11:17 am

Family feuds can be such a nasty affair and when a family business is involved it gets worse! Poor Rix. It sounds as if his refusal was just the catalyst for the row.

I noticed he said

Quote:

I tried to explain why I couldn’t go

Am I reading too much into 'couldn't' ?

Thank you Mia.

#177: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 11:38 am

Quote:

Am I reading too much into 'couldn't' ?

Very astute of you, Pat! And did you notice Rix was a bit vague about what he actually said to Jack at Christmas...?

Mwahahaha (evil laugh) Twisted Evil

Seriously, thanks for all the encouraging comments, I was so nervous when I first posted this I was shaking! It's so great that you all like it! Very Happy

#178: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 11:57 am

[quote="Mia"]

Quote:

I was so nervous when I first posted this I was shaking!

So was I, Mia, but everyone is always so kind.

#179: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 12:07 pm

oh no, more mysteries that need solving.

sounds like a horrid row, poor Rix.

#180: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 12:13 pm

Poor Rix.
I hope Mia's evil cackling doesn't mean badness is going to happen...
*Wibbles*

#181: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 12:34 pm

obviously to be trapped in cave by rising tide!
But maybe ML is the one to save them?
Jacks temper is not unexpected, if you look at what he said to Mike (in where, reunion, Jo and co in tyrol?), but his temper has been discussed here.

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 12:49 pm

Mia wrote:

There was a huge row and Aunt Jo said something about Mum and Dad dumping us on Aunt Madge to bring up because they couldn’t be bothered.

While Jo's daughters boarded at a school that was next door to her house and her sons were sent to another country to board and often weren't home for much of the holidays.

Hmmmm - even if her remarks were justified it would be a severe case of pot and kettle.

Thanks Mia - I'm also wondering if they're going to be trapped in there for hours by the tide.

Liz

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 4:14 pm

hmmmm I for one think there is more to this than Mis has revealed so far....

do we get to hear the Maynard's side of the tale by any chance?

Thank you for the updates!

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 5:44 pm

Would definitely like to know more about the row, and why Jack hit Rix - but when you're ready Mia, I can wait! Wink

#185: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 5:49 pm

This is great when Exclamation

*wonders when we can have more, thinks she's maybe to greedy Embarassed

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 6:34 pm

Intriguing! *speculating wildly*

More whenever possible please, Mia!

#187: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 9:25 pm

Yes, Mia, this is great!

More soon as you are able, please!

#188: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 9:41 pm

Why did Rix say he couldn't go? I think there is a lot more to this than we know. More soon please Mia, and thank you for these bits.

#189: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 11:53 pm

Excellent. Is Rix going to have a skeleton in his closet by any chance?

Thanks Mia. Looking forward to the next bit Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 5:28 am

You all know I think Joey is perfection personified.

So what is the Maynard side of the story. I'm sure there was fault on both sides.

(Also I do think that Dick and Molly found Madge and Jem a convenient dumping place for their children)

#191: Author: Emma A as guest,

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 7:35 am

Isn't that what a lot of Anglo-Indian families did? Send their children back to relatives or school, partly for education but mostly because of the climate. It's more of a surprise the Bettanys kept Maeve and Maurice with them as long as they did. No doubt having Madge was very convenient, and perhaps if she had not been able to take them, all the Bettany children would have been as old as the Second twins before returning to England to go to school.

Still, I do hope Rix goes into more detail about why Jack was so angry (perhaps he'd been keeping the job open specially) and what Rix said about his reasons for not leaving England.

*that was a hint for more, Mia* Very Happy

#192: Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 9:19 am

Emma A said

Quote:

I thought the reason Maeve and Maurice didn't return to England sooner was because of WW2. I wouldn't have thought that sea journey was very safe - even if there were boats taking passengers then

#193: Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 1:13 pm

Thanks Mia. Looking forward to the next bit.

#194: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 2:29 pm

Emma A as guest wrote:

Isn't that what a lot of Anglo-Indian families did? Send their children back to relatives or school, partly for education but mostly because of the climate. Very Happy

We had quite a few Anglo Indians at school. Quite a few of them stayed right through their summer hols and the school was pretty well home to them. We had a girl in our form who didn't see her parents or any other relatives for at least 6 years.

#195: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 4:28 pm

patmac wrote:

Parents I can understand (a little) but no other relatives? The school would have been home for her, then - I hope she enjoyed it!

#196: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 9:05 pm

...and then you read something like Angela Brazil's The Fortunes of Philippa (or similar) and realise that if Madge and Jem hadn't taken on Rix and Peggy, then Bride and Jackie, the poor little tykes probably would have been sent to boarding school in the UK from about the age of five or six...I believe there were special boarding schools for the Children of Empire...set up to be home for the whole year for these children...

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

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 6:32 am

Sophoife wrote:

...if Madge and Jem hadn't taken on Rix and Peggy, then Bride and Jackie, the poor little tykes probably would have been sent to boarding school in the UK from about the age of five or six...I

As opposed to being sent to board with relatives from the age of 6 months...

#198: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 11:13 am

Here's some more of them in the cave

The cave was large and surprisingly light inside. Mary-Lou scrambled over the rocks at the entrance with Rix following her; and entered the main interior space. It had dark passageways leading off from the main area.

“This is fascinating – do those tunnels lead anywhere?” Mary-Lou asked at once.

“John says those two merge into one tunnel, which comes to a dead end, and that one on the left has collapsed part of the way in. I’ve never gone over this place like he has. I’m sure he said something about there being another passage that leads out on the cliffs or somewhere – he wanted us to explore it, but we never did. I can’t even remember where it was now. It seems years since we used to come here.”

“Is it dangerous?” Mary-Lou asked, wondering why Rix was hanging back.

“I don’t think so. Not when the tide’s out anyway. The current’s strong around here and even strong swimmers have had problems on the beach, but I think it’s safe enough to look round for a while. Like I said, John’s been all over it with no problems. You’ll need a torch to go through some of the tunnels. I could run back and get one?”

“Oh, no – it’s fine, don’t worry. It’s quite light in here already, isn’t it?”

“I know – chasms on the top of the cliff, I think.”

“Can we go in a little way – just to see if we can find John’s passage? I’ve got my lighter.” Mary-Lou asked, smiling.

Rix hesitated, but only for a second. He was enjoying Mary-Lou’s company and he didn’t want to disappoint her. He was thinking about the tide – he knew how fast it could come in and for once he hadn’t noticed how far out it was from the beach, due to his other concerns, but reasoned that they would hear the tide come in and could wade out if necessary.

“Of course, but we’d better keep together, and watch out for loose rocks by your feet.” he warned, taking her arm as they went deeper inside.

Edited: Thanks Emma!

Last edited by Mia on Fri Jun 10, 2005 7:08 pm; edited 2 times in total

#199: Author: Beth, Location: Back in Durham...nearly finished a whole year!!

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 11:16 am

Ooooohhh...tides...

*wibble*

Cliffs in more senses than one!

*stocks up with nice things to eat, hot chocolate for Rix and M-L to recouperate with, blankets, torches for search parties, etc etc...*

Thank you Mia!

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

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 11:20 am