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The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

#401:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 3:01 pm


oh dear what a mix-up, poor ML and Rix
like Joey in this - sounds just the kind of letter ML needs.

Am still wondering what meeting it is that Rix goes to - we don't know that yet do we?

 


#402:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 3:10 pm


Quote:
Am still wondering what meeting it is that Rix goes to - we don't know that yet do we?


Not yet... it might be easy to work out though. All will be revealed!

Here's a bonus bit




David met Jack for dinner at the restaurant that Jack had chosen, feeling slightly apprehensive. He hoped that Jack wasn’t going to go on too much about the San; it was all he ever heard from his father who still maintained a large financial interest in it and would be straight on the telephone if the quarterly reports weren’t healthy. But he had at least listened to David’s plans and given him the go-ahead to bring them into practice. David was feeling very pleased with himself indeed. His father’s approval meant a great deal after his rather shaky start as a medical student.

He gave himself a mental shake and fixed a smile to his face as he saw his uncle sat at a far table. He reminded himself that although both sans still maintained close links, the financial aspects were now completely separate, so technically Jack couldn’t interfere with his plans even if he wanted to. David grinned at his speculation, what was there to worry about? He was certain Jack would be impressed.

 


#403:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 3:15 pm


ooh intriguing I wonder what his plans are. Thanks, Mia I really like the way there are so many strands and twists to this.

 


#404:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 3:35 pm


Thanks Mia

*also intrigued*

Liz

 


#405:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 4:16 pm


I have an inkling what the meetings might be but I'm saying nowt because I'm probably wrong.

Looking forward to seeing at least one of these loose ends tied up at some point soon! Very Happy

 


#406:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 4:45 pm


Katie, have PM'd you! Wink




Jack was not in the best of moods, his initial elation about the loans from the bank had been replaced by the ever-present anxiety about how he was going to repay them and he was still annoyed about not being able to contact Rix. He knew he should apologise and he hated to be in the wrong. Also, Joey was continually asking him to make his peace with Rix. She hated not being in touch with Dick and Mollie and the quarrel had upset her badly. He hadn’t reminded her that it had been her own tactless comment about the Bettany children being left with Jem and Madge that had, in her own words, put the tin lid on things.

He sighed over the menu and looked up to see David enter the restaurant. He came over, greeted Jack and sat down, immediately plunging into an anecdote about his training hospital.

It was not until they had finished their starters that Jack asked David if he had spoken to his cousin recently.

“I saw him about two weeks ago. We ran into Mary-Lou Trelawney and went out for a drink. As a matter of fact, I had lunch with her this afternoon. She’s a lovely girl.”

“Mmm. Your Aunt Jo asked me to call on her if I could, but I don’t think I’ll be able to fit it in. You’ll have to give her my regards. Do you know Rix’s address?”

“I’ve got it somewhere – he’s always at work though or out with those lot from – ." David hesitated. He had his faults, but he was loyal enough. “Have you tried St Thomas’s?”

“Yes – and I have to say, I wasn’t very happy at being spoken to by an incredibly rude consultant – Rayner I believe he was called. Practically threw me out of his office. If that’s the best the NHS can do I wonder how long it can continue. Ridiculous notion.” Jack complained, bitterly, “Making doctors work such long hours for such low wages. Totally unsustainable.”

“Mr Rayner? He is pretty fierce.” David said, ignoring most of this, having heard it all before. “He comes over to Guy’s once a week and yells at us. He doesn’t think much of our surgical skills. Rix seems to get on OK with him, though.”

“I can’t for the life of me think why he wants to continue in the NHS when the San can offer him so much more.” Jack muttered.

“It’s completely different these days,” David began, unwisely. “We specialise more. Rix hasn’t trained as a thoracic surgeon so why would he want to start again from the bottom in a sanatorium for lung diseases? Anyway, last time he and I discussed it he was still thinking of having a year or two in Africa or Asia with Médicins sans Frontières. He might come around to working in the San – not in Switzerland but with me…”

Jack looked horrified, “Médicins sans Frontières? What is this obsession with going miles away to dangerous places? Margot is exactly the same… And anyway, I may well change the direction of the San. TB isn’t over completely, despite these claims of latest miracle medicines. I still have my patients. But what I’ll do is focus more on cancer patients and more general illnesses.”

“Really?” David said, eagerly, although he was thinking privately that Jack still had TB patients precisely because he wasn’t treating them with the latest medicines. In his opinion, the Gornetz Platz was stuck in the past. “I’m changing the direction of the Welsh san too. In fact, I was going to write to you before I knew you were in London. I’ve got plans to expand and completely change the way it’s run. I’ve managed to recruit a few of the men I trained with and they’re really keen to start.”

“What are your plans?” Jack asked, instinctively feeling that he was not going to like them.


Last edited by Mia on Thu Jun 02, 2005 10:26 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#407:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 5:38 pm


Well that's a cliff!

I like this thread, thanks for all the updates

 


#408:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 6:21 pm


Great updates! Very Happy
And Jack, maybe Rix works for the NHS because he has a conscience and wants ordinary people to be treated instead of the privledged few!

 


#409:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 6:27 pm


Jack is really not coming across as a very likeable person is this - don't thinl that much of David either, but at least he's loyal.

 


#410:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 11:53 pm


Poor Mary-Lou and Rix. Hope they get themselves sorted out soon.

Looking forward to learning all the mysteries!

 


#411:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 10:18 am


What a tangled web they weave! Very Happy

Thanks Mia, fab as always.

 


#412:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 12:24 pm


Thanks Mia

Wonder what plans David has for the San.

Liz

 


#413:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 4:51 pm


“Well,” David began, “I’ve closed the TB wards, there was no point in keeping them open as we found we didn’t have any patients who couldn’t be treated with strong drugs. Haven’t you discovered that? I don’t know about you, but since we started using them, our success rate was nearly 100% - not counting the really hopeless cases of course. I’m going to concentrate on the administration myself and we’ll also start some training programmes for medical students – basically I’ve got a man looking into it and the NHS would pay us to give research places to some of their students. There’s a bloke I know called Sir Robert Welles and he’s interested in this, so that would be a definite income to replace the loss from the TB patients. But basically, I was thinking about it and discussing it with a few of the fellows from Guy’s and I thought – .”

“What?” Jack interrupted him. “Why have you closed your TB wards? Does your father know?”

“Of course he does – he agrees with me that we need to change our focus…”

“It seems a drastic step to me. What if these drugs don’t work?” Jack persisted, stubbornly.

David was confused. Was Jack serious? Didn’t he read the medical journals or latest research? TB was nearly wiped out now, except for the Third World.

“I want to turn the San into a children’s hospital. I’ve done some research and I think – “

“Fine.” Jack cut him off, abruptly. If Jem agreed with David’s plans then he didn’t care. He no longer had any financial interest in the Welsh san anyway and none of David’s ideas appealed to him as ones he could adapt for his own institution. Research and paediatrics didn’t sound very profitable to him and he could no longer be bothered with medical students. Jack wanted to recruit established doctors and surgeons, knowing he couldn’t give junior doctors the time he once was able to.

Why did you ask if you didn’t want to know? David thought, annoyed, pushing the food around on his plate. His Uncle Jack had once been a great ally, now he was becoming unbearable.

“How many TB cases do you have in Switzerland?” he asked, trying to keep his voice neutral.

Jack changed the subject abruptly, leaving David to correctly deduce that the answers was few, if any, and certainly no referrals from England as had happened in the past. For a moment, he felt sorry for his uncle, obviously he was finding it hard to adapt to a world without the white man’s plague that had been his life’s work to fight.

“A lot of thoracic specialists are moving into cardiology now,” he tried to hint. “I know a chap who used to specialise in TB and lung cancers who’s now doing really interesting research into treating congenital heart defects.”

“I thought about that,” Jack admitted, wondering if he could confide his money problems to David without the news being relayed to Jem. “But I want to develop a centre for cancer treatments. That’s part of the reason why I want Rix to join the San. I expect you know all about this from him.” He continued, frowning.

“He hasn’t said much to me,” David said, noncommittally.

“I offered him a job at the San – I expected he’d jump at the chance but apparently not. He said he wasn’t interested in working in private practice or in Switzerland. He was very vague why he wouldn’t. I offered him a lot of money.” Jack complained. “And reminded him that his first loyalty should be to the family.”

Oh not this again, thought David. “How much – do you mind me asking – did you offer him?” he asked.

Jack named a sum and David had to bite his lip to keep from laughing. Jack was years behind the times!

“I see. I think you’d need to offer a bit more than that – even though he’s in the NHS, he’s still a surgeon! He must get – let me think -” David named a very high figure indeed, much to Jack’s astonishment.

“I didn’t think the NHS paid that much.” he replied. “But I do think he could take a cut in salary to help me implement some changes in the San.”

“I have to dash off, Uncle Jack, but thanks for dinner.” David said, getting up, unable to take any more of Jack’s moaning. He also had a date with one of the nurses and her shift would be finished soon, “Safe journey back to the Platz and give Aunt Joey my love.”

Before Jack could say anything, he had gone, leaving Jack almost incandescent with anger.

 


#414:  Author: RuthYLocation: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 5:23 pm


Thanks Mia

LOADS OF GREAT UPDATES!!!!!

More as soon as you can (is that to greedy??)

Ruth

 


#415:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 5:24 pm


Mia wrote:
Before Jack could say anything, he had gone, leaving Jack almost incandescent with anger.

And presumably with the bill? Twisted Evil Wink

Thanks Mia

Liz

 


#416:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 5:42 pm


Jack is awful!

 


#417:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 5:59 pm


I really dont like Jack's attitude here, even if he does have problems, why should his relatives try and help solve them??

Thanks Mia Very Happy

 


#418:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 6:23 pm


Jack is a nasty piece of work in this drabble! Evil or Very Mad

 


#419:  Author: SandraLocation: Oxfordshire PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 7:47 pm


This is great but I don't like Jack now. I used to feel sorry for him - having to be at the beck and call of the school constantly but now I just think that he needs to work in the real world for a bit.

 


#420:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 10:15 pm


Jack's an idiot!!!!

David gets around a bit, doesn't he?! first M-L and now this nurse...

 


#421:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 10:32 pm


Thank you Mia!

Yes, Jack is horrid...and nice that David's loyal to his cousin!

 


#422:  Author: JoeyLocation: Cambridge PostPosted: Fri Jun 03, 2005 9:06 am


Nasty Jack. Nice David.

This is great, Mia - more please!

 


#423:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 03, 2005 9:08 am


Good for David! Love that he cut the meting off because he had a date - he really is the original player in this! Laughing

thanks Mia

 


#424:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jun 03, 2005 10:22 am


Jack really needs to get up to date. Fancy offering Rix such a low salary, just because he's family. And don't people need re-training for Oncology?

 


#425:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Fri Jun 03, 2005 1:48 pm


I suppoose David can't be all bad if he wants to make the Welsh San a children's hospital... but I'm jolly glad Mary-Lou told him they should just be friends.

 


#426:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jun 03, 2005 7:29 pm


Well David has risen in my estimation a little - while Jack has dropped like a stone!

Love this Mia - so nice to see all the background - and why does Jack not know about the TB drugs??? Shocked

 


#427:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 10:27 pm


Rix woke early the next morning. After the meeting, which had been filled with impassioned debates as usual, he had gone to a party in someone’s flat with Gina and the others. They had drunk a large quantity of cheap wine and talked and argued into the early hours. Rix had only had two glasses, and now he was glad. He needed a clear head for his discussions with Jack.

At ten, he took a taxi to the hotel and was amazed to see how shabby it was. He had to double-check it was the correct address. The receptionist phoned Jack’s room for him and Rix waited by the large and grubby window in the small sitting room for him to come down.

It took ten minutes and Jack looked as if he had dressed in a hurry.

“Rix.” he said in greeting, sounding surprised. “I’m pleased to see you – thank you for coming.”

Rix nodded. He could smell the whisky on his uncle from the night before and hoped they wouldn’t argue again.

“Sit down, sit down.” Jack urged. “I’ll get us some coffee, I’ll ask the receptionist. How are you?”

“I’m fine, and you?” Rix had known it was going to be awkward, but this was awful. Jack looked dreadful - tired, grey and old. It wasn’t just a hangover, Rix realised that Jack looked like someone who’d been living under a great strain for a long time.

“I wanted to apologise for striking you, that time. I should have kept my temper. And I had no right to say those things to you, or to your parents, especially as they weren’t true.”

Rix looked at him, amazed, “Well, we can draw a line under it, can’t we? I’m sorry too.”

“I’m glad about that, glad you feel that way. I had dinner with David last night. He explained that I was offering you too little money – but we don’t need to discuss that now.” Jack said, hurriedly, noticing Rix starting to frown. “How are things going at work? I saw your hospital yesterday.”

“It’s fine. Thank you. Dad’s fine.” Rix added, trying his hardest not to sound too critical. “How is Aunt Jo?”

“Very well, finishing her latest novel, otherwise she’d be here with me.” Jack fibbed, sitting down next to his nephew. “Well, we’d be in the little hotel she prefers in Kensington, probably, but this is handier for my – my meetings.” He had said medical conference to Joey, but Rix would know that as an untruth. “That’s good news about Dick. I’m very pleased. Do you think I could - I’d like to write to him, to apologise. And Jo will write to your mother.”

“Mother’s in Canada, visiting Peg and my new little niece.” Rix replied, relaxing a little. Jack did seem anxious to make amends.

“So I heard from Len. Her baby’s due any day now – due last week, actually, but first babies are often late. Isn’t that three children young Peggy has now? Bride’s expecting too, isn’t she?” Jack asked.

“Yes, due in October. I think Dad would be pleased if you wrote to him. And Mother would too, I expect.”

“Good. And Rix, I am sorry. For everything I said. I’d be grateful for the chance to be friends again.”

Rix nodded, wishing he knew what to say. He had expected further argument after Rayner’s report but he was glad of the chance to heal the rift. He knew how pleased his parents would be. And if things did get better, the Maynards could come to the wedding, which would make Maeve happy.

Jack was similarly pleased it was going so well. Rix seemed quiet, but no more so than usual. He still wanted his nephew to work in the San, but had decided to change tack. He started to discuss David’s plans for the San, as the receptionist brought them some coffee.

Rix was annoyed at the thought of David poaching NHS staff, but kept his feelings to himself. The truce was so fragile that a cross word could break it down again.

 


#428:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 10:49 pm


Glad there is a truce.....albeit a fragile one

now if you'd just like to sort out the Mary-Lou complication we'll all be very happy![/i]

 


#429:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 11:23 pm


Thanks Mia

Hope Jack isn't just saying those things to get Rix to work for him

Liz

 


#430:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 3:43 am


Think Jack is saying all those things to get Rix to work for him. And he obviously thinks the only reason Rix turned him down was money.

Thanks Mia.

 


#431:  Author: Guest PostPosted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 4:11 pm


I like this story alot

 


#432:  Author: LucyLocation: Leeds PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 9:39 am


Mia - this is fab! I've been away for a couple of weeks and am just catching up on a few drabbles now. I'm so impressed at just how much I've had to catch up on this one - can't believe how much you've posted.

Really enjoying it - thanks alot

 


#433:  Author: pygmyLocation: glasgow PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 10:55 am


I've just caught up on masses of this. Really enjoying it. Thanks, Mia.

 


#434:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 10:08 pm


Jack offered to take Rix out for lunch, but Rix said he had to go into work. He took the bus and walked to the hospital, where he found Rayner in their office, in an unexpectedly good mood.

“We’ve had a significant donation to build the new wing,” he said, offering Rix a cigarette. “Come on, I’ll take you out to lunch to celebrate. What’s that?”

Rix screwed up Mary-Lou’s note and tossed it into the wastepaper basket. “Nothing.” he said, tersely. “Who gave us the cash?”

“Gerard Ellingham. He telephoned me first thing this morning. He’s giving us a great deal of money.” Rayner named an astronomical sum.

“Why is he giving that much money?” Rix asked, doubtfully.

“Why so suspicious? It’s small change to him and he does give to charitable causes sometimes.”

“Well, it’s very decent of him.” Rix said, pulling his coat on. “I won’t say no to lunch. Thank you.”

Over lunch, after they had discussed the donation and the workload for the forthcoming week, Rayner told Rix that Gerard Ellingham had requested a meeting with him.

“Just with me? Why?” Rix asked.

“I think just to introduce himself. He’ll be involved with the financial aspects of the new wing so working fairly closely with us. Robert and I know him already, but you don’t, do you? Do you mind? He’s given me a couple of dates for next week and he said you could choose which restaurant you want for a lunch. He was quite persistent, actually. I expect he wants to get to know the whole team.”

“No, it’s fine.” Rix said – he couldn’t say anything else, really – but he did think it strange that Ellingham would want to introduce himself to a junior surgeon so badly. He had never acknowledged Rix’s presence at previous meetings, except for once when he had snarled at Rix to get out of his way.

 


#435:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 10:11 pm


Am I the only one suspicious of the Scum's motives? Thought not.

Thanks Mia. Laughing

 


#436:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 10:12 pm


Lesley wrote:
Am I the only one suspicious of the Scum's motives? Thought not.


Definitely not!

Thanks Mia

Liz

 


#437:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 10:29 pm


*thinks Lesley is right to be suspicious*

although I wonder just what the Scum (sorry - the name's stuck!) might say to Rix.....whatever it is, it's not going to be nice.

 


#438:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 7:49 am


*Also suspicious*

Gerald certainly has put himself in a position to threaten and blackmail Rix over seeing ML. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr and pokes him.

 


#439:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 8:39 am


Another suspicious person here.

Is it too soon to ask for more? Smile

Thanks Mia

 


#440:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 8:42 am


Also suspicious...

Thank you Mia!

 


#441:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 9:14 am


*also wonders what Gerald's up to*

thanks Mia

 


#442:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 9:40 am


*ahhh, but while wondering about that, also wonders if any plan *could* backfire into his face. After all if he is trying to warn Rix off ML then perhaps he might end up giving Rix hope that ML cares about him... Or something like that! - Hmmm, strains of Pride and Pred in that way of looking at things!*

 


#443:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 10:53 am


I hope Rix will stand up to the evil scum!

 


#444:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 7:27 am


Suspicious of Scum

(thanks Lesley for coining the name!

Thanks muchly Mia for so much more since last I was able to look!

 


#445:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 9:51 am


David was waiting outside the hospital as Rix left.

“Do you fancy coming for a drink? I need your advice,” he asked, mysteriously.

“Sure. Where do you want to go?” Rix replied, easily. David asked him for advice, favours and loans often, but this time David did look rather bothered.

“Oh, anywhere. This’ll do.” David waited until Rix had ordered their pints at the bar before he continued. “The thing is, I’m in a bit of a fix.”

“Money?” Rix asked briefly, sitting down at a table.

“No – I. No. I don’t really know how to say this,” David prevaricated, “But…”

 


#446:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 10:20 am


Ohhh what has David done?
For some reason I've the idea that he has gotten a girl pregnant... Confused

 


#447:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 10:50 am


such a short update!

But what has David done?

ETA horrid prunella - took me ages to be able to stand on my own 2 feet and now I'm having to learn all over again!

 


#448:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 11:47 am


Thanks Mia Very Happy

Care to come and continue the conversation for us?

Liz

 


#449:  Author: AlexLocation: Hunts, UK PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 11:57 am


I was all convinced that Rix was an alcoholic, but then he was drinking at the party, so it doesn't sound like it. I wonder...

 


#450:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 12:04 pm


they ARE a messed up family, aren't they!!!!

*g*

thank you, Mia

 


#451:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 12:12 pm


thanks, Mia. Having caught up on a few days of this, I'm actually liking David a bit better. He sounds as if he is on the right tracks with the Welsh San and, if he got off to a shaky start in training he's not the first!

Jem sounds very financially oriented - I didn't like the sound of that.

As for Jack ----- words fail me. I wouldn't want to be his patient Shocked

Mary Lou and Rix have got themselves in a mess, haven't they?

 


#452:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 12:15 pm


I think that Gerald needs to be watched very, very carefully. Lower than a slime-mould, that one.

 


#453:  Author: nikkieLocation: Cumbria PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 7:28 pm


I don't trust any of them except Rix, all after their own interests.
Thanks Mia

 


#454:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 3:21 pm


“I think I’m in love,” he finished, dramatically.

Rix burst into laughter. “I’m sorry. From the way you were carrying on I thought it was something serious!”

“It is serious,” David said, affronted. “I think this might be it, you know, that she’s the one for me.”

“Sorry,” Rix said again, but he was amused. David had a different girlfriend every week and was a favourite of the nurses at the hospital with his good looks and easy-going charm.

“I was out last night with another girl, and while we were dancing I realised that she was the girl I wanted to marry. Not the girl, I was with, of course, but – “

“How romantic. Well, who is the lucky girl then?” Rix teased.

“It’s Mary-Lou Trelawney. I took her out for lunch yesterday.” David replied.

Rix put his glass back down on the table, slowly. It felt like the sun had gone behind a cloud. Any hope that had remained to him had gone at David’s words.

“Does she feel the same way?” he asked, trying not to let his true feelings show. He knew at that moment that whatever his budding feelings for Mary-Lou were, they were not reciprocated. Her behaviour outside the hospital had proved that, now he had to accept it.

“I don’t know. She asked if we could just be friends, but I do want more than that.” David said, sounding petulant.

“How do you think I can give you advice, Dave?” Rix asked.

“I wondered if you could talk to her at Maeve’s wedding? See if she would be interested in marrying me?” David asked. “No, hear me out. Don’t get all edgy like you usually do. You could speak to Maeve and ask her to find out how Mary-Lou feels about me.”

“I don’t get edgy.” Rix said, frowning.

“You do so! All impatient and prickly like you are now. You’ve always done it. Anyway, will you?”

“I’ll speak to Maeve,” Rix said, abruptly, not liking David’s frank assessment of his personality.

“Thanks – I appreciate it. And anytime I can repay you, just let me know.” David replied.

 


#455:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 3:23 pm


Oh, don't lose heart Rix - it's just one big, messy, misunderstanding! Hope David loses interest again soon...

 


#456:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 3:56 pm


Nooooo!

*hoping David falls in love with someone else very shortly - or are we going to get them almost up the aisle before Rix declares his true feelings?*

thanks Mia

 


#457:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 3:58 pm


Thanks Mia

Now is the time for Rix to ask him to repay the favour!!!

Liz

 


#458:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 9:50 pm


Just caught up on the last three pages - how verrrrrrrry interesting - feeling sorry for poor Rix and Mary-Lou, what a tangled mess!

 


#459:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 3:24 pm


May turned out to be a very busy month for Rix and Francis Rayner and it was nearing the end of the month before Rix could fit the lunch meeting with Gerard Ellingham into his schedule.

He hadn’t spoken to Mary-Lou or to Maeve about Mary-Lou. He was determined not to do the latter, despite all of David’s pleas. It was too difficult for him to do. He wanted to confide in someone about the situation but couldn’t think of anyone to tell and so brooded over it at intervals, unable to shake the feeling he was letting his cousin down.

Mollie Bettany had returned from Canada and the Bettanys were busy with the final preparations for Maeve’s wedding, which would take place in a fortnight’s time. Rix wasn’t looking forward to attending it and seeing Mary-Lou and David together.

He sighed as he entered the expensive restaurant Gerard Ellingham had chosen and gave his name to the Maitre D’.

Gerard was waiting for him at the table. He stood up and they shook hands.

“Good afternoon.” Gerard said, “Please, sit down.”

Rix sat and Gerard ordered wine for both of them, immediately plunging into a conversation about his shares in the stock market. Rix tried to maintain an expression of interest, but he was inwardly wondering why Gerard had requested his company. He didn’t have long to wait to find out.

“I also sponsor exhibitions at the Royal Academy and the British Museum. I have one opening tomorrow evening. Treasures of Peru. I understand you are acquainted with Mary-Lou Trelawney?”

“Mary-Lou? Yes, she went to school with my sisters.”

“It is only a family connection? I saw you once at the Museum. Were you visiting her?”

“I was returning her lighter. She left it behind one weekend when she was visiting my sister at home.” Rix wasn’t going to mention their adventure in the cave. He was baffled why Gerard Ellingham was quizzing him about Mary-Lou. “Is there a problem?”

“I’ll need you to devote a lot of your time to the project.” Gerard said, easily, “I was just checking there was nothing to distract you.”

Rix had a hot temper but he managed to choke back an angry retort. Rayner had impressed on him the need to keep Ellingham committed to the funding.

“I don’t mean to offend you, but well – this is a delicate matter. Miss Trelawney has a great many gentlemen friends. We’re going to working closely together and well, I’m sure you know what some women are like.” Gerard smirked, “Just thought I’d pass on some friendly advice.”

This was the same thing that Mary-Lou’s colleague had hinted to Rix and he frowned. She hadn’t seemed that way to him, but apart from their time in the cave, they hadn’t spent any time alone together to really talk.

Gerard noticed Rix’s unease and continued his poisonous dialogue. He was sure that it was working. Mary-Lou would soon be exactly where he wanted her with no allies and no choice but to come back to him.

 


#460:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 4:43 pm


Evil piece of dog excreta! Sorry, Scum didn't seem to fit any more.

Thanks Mia.

 


#461:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 5:02 pm


I'm coming to the end of this - a few more posts will round it off I think!

Two weeks later, Mary-Lou took the train to the Quadrant for Maeve’s wedding. While most of the guests would attend for the day only, the vast majority of the family and certain friends would stay for the whole weekend and she knew the Bettanys had lots of plans for entertainments. She had passed the last few weeks feeling rather lonely and the prospect of a whole weekend with other people was one she was looking forward to.

David had invited her out for dinner twice, but she had made her excuses. She liked David, but still did not want a relationship with him. Gerard had also made some attempts to contact her, but she hadn’t returned his calls and even left the launch reception for the Treasures of Peru exhibition early so she wouldn’t have to see him.

She sighed to herself and rested her forehead against the train window, gazing out at the passing fields with eyes that saw nothing. She knew deep down that she only wanted a relationship with one man – and it wasn’t Gerard.

 


#462:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 5:07 pm


Would someone please bang Rix and Mary Lou's heads together????


Thank you.

 


#463:  Author: RuthYLocation: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 5:36 pm


Just caught up with this

Loads of great updates

More as soon as you can(hint hint)

Ruth

 


#464:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 6:06 pm


Please let ML and Rix find out about all the misunderstandings and laugh over them!

 


#465:  Author: DawnLocation: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 6:53 pm


Lesley wrote:
Would someone please bang Rix and Mary Lou's heads together????


Thank you.


Mia - that doesn't mean you have to do it literally Wink



Just a little concerned after the cave incident



thankyou for the update, but sad it's coming towards the end

 


#466:  Author: nikkieLocation: Cumbria PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 7:01 pm


Even if its coming to the end I expect that there will be potential for a follow -up Wink
Thanks I am really enjoying this Smile

 


#467:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 10:49 pm


Hmm a follow up Wink


Maeve was waiting for her at Sheepheys Junction. She looked radiant with happiness, despite her first words.

“Mary-Lou, thank goodness you’re here! There’ll all driving me mad! Daphne’s decided she doesn’t want to wear her dress and Lady Brentford’s took over the whole of the South Wing!”

Mary-Lou laughed as she threw her case into the back of the car. “Hello Maeve! Are you picking anyone else up? I didn’t see anyone on the train.”

“No, just you. Guess who I’m picking up tomorrow morning though? You never will.”

“Rix?” Mary-Lou said, trying to keep her voice casual.

“No, he’s already home.” Maeve said, looking at her oddly. “Aunt Jo and Uncle Jack! Apparently Rix met him in London and they’ve made up. Auntie Jo phoned Mummy and they had a really long chat and now everything’s fine. Daddy’s really happy about it, he did miss Aunt Jo, you know. Isn’t it just miraculous? Oh, and Daphne’s probably going to go to the Chalet School in September. Apparently she was thrilled with all your adventures and Bride and I are deaved answering all her questions! She actually asked Mummy and Daddy if she could go.”

“She’s going to Switzerland?” Mary-Lou asked, as they sped back to the Quadrant.

“Well, that’s where she wants to go, but I expect she’ll go to Glendower House for a year or so first. It’ll be a huge step for her to go to boarding school and be with crowds of other girls after being just one with a governess.”

“It’s good that she wants to go though, isn’t it?” Mary-Lou said, and asked about the wedding arrangements. That discussion lasted until they arrived at the Quadrant and Mary-Lou and Maeve found the other female members of the family, plus the autocratic Lady Brentford; and Lalla and Polly Winterton and their mother, in the drawing room.

Mary-Lou and Lalla fell on each with shrieks of delight and spent a good ten minutes catching up before Mary-Lou remembered her manners and spoke a few words of greeting to everyone else. Lady Brentford remembered her from the dinner party in April and was surprisingly charming to her.

“Daddy, the boys and Freddie and Daniel have gone to the village to have a drink in the Devonshire Arms.” Maeve explained. “They’ll be back later and we’ll all have dinner together. Do you want to unpack first or have a bit of a gossip?”

“Oh, gossip, definitely!” Mary-Lou laughed and the two of them settled down to a pleasant conversation with Mollie and Bride until it was time to change for dinner.

At dinner, she saw she would be sitting between Francis Rayner and Simon Carrington, which was fine. Rix was next to Lady Brentford at the other end of the large table. As the Wintertons and their mother were also staying at the Quadrant for the weekend, there were sixteen people for dinner, including Daphne, who had begged to be allowed to stay up for once.

She glanced across at Rix, who looked tired. David was sat on the other side of the formidable Lady Brentford, but he seemed to be busy talking to Lalla, who was giggling.

Rix looked at Mary-Lou, noticing she was looking in David’s direction and sighed. He hadn’t spoken to Maeve yet but David had asked him to do so again in the pub.

 


#468:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 10:52 pm


Pleeeeeeeeease Mia, let Maeve see what's going on and sort everything out!

(Thanks for the lovely long post as well! Kiss)

 


#469:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 12:29 am


Thank you for post Mia, please put Rix out of his misery soon.

 


#470:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 7:21 am


Thanks for the updates Mia

Maybe David will transfer his affections to Lalla. Then Rix won't feel he has to sacrifice himself on the altar of cousinship.

Liz

 


#471:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 8:37 am


I shall certainly be sorry to see this end, even though I can't wait for ML and Rix to sort themselves out.

I do hope there's a sequel!

 


#472:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 8:38 am


“How nice to meet you again, Miss Trelawney.” Rayner said to Mary-Lou, privately thinking that she was a very pretty girl. “I don’t expect you remember me, but we met at the Savoy in early April. Francis Rayner.”

“I do remember you – you work with Rix. Please call me Mary-Lou.”

“Of course, and my name is Frank. Do you know everyone here? I’m afraid to admit that apart from Richard and Lyndhurst and Russell, I don’t know a soul.”

Mary-Lou looked around the table and laughed, “Most of them! I’ll have to tell you who everyone is.”

“That would be very helpful of you. I’ve met Richard’s parents and his sister, the bride-to-be, but none of the other ladies.”

“Lady Brentford – Maeve says she’s a dragon, but she’s been sweet to me – Polly Winterton, who was at school with us – Mrs Winterton, the Wintertons live quite close by, I believe – Mollie, who you know – Lalla, Polly’s sister – Daphne, the youngest Bettany – and that’s Bride, Maeve’s sister. Her husband is opposite, Simon Carrington.”

“I see. And who is next to Richard’s mother?”

“That’s John, Rix’s brother. He’s in the Navy.” Mary-Lou replied. “It’s wonderful that he could be here, from what Maeve says I think he’s away a lot.”

As the dinner progressed, Mary-Lou enjoyed talking to Rayner. For all his fearsome reputation, he was relaxed and amusing company. He opened up to her and she learnt about how his wife and small son had been killed in an accident ten years ago and how he had thrown himself into his work to get through that terrible loss. She also learnt that he was very fond of Rix and knew a great deal about the San business, although he didn’t want to discuss it.

It was a pleasant evening and despite her tiredness after the journey, Mary-Lou was sorry to leave the dining-room with the rest of the ladies and as soon as she could, escaped for an early night.

 


#473:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 9:23 am


Thank you Mia - I wonder, will Rayner be of help solving Rix and Mary Lou's problems?

 


#474:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 10:03 am


I wonder if when talking about David ML will think Rix means himself.
Have been enjoying this.
Maybe they can get trapped in a cave again!!

 


#475:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 11:04 am


Thanks Mia Very Happy

Please sombody interfere soon and set the pair of the straight! Maybe Jo will do one of her famous butting in acts?

 


#476:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 12:55 pm


Thanks Mia

Maybe Frank will be able to help the star-crossed lovers?

Liz

 


#477:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 1:31 pm


Im tempted to knock there heads together, but I will be kind!

Thanks Mia this is wonderful and i hope they sort out the mess soon!!

 


#478:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 6:22 pm


awww i really hope it will be sorted out soon - Rix seems very unhappy

 


#479:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 9:25 am


Aww hope it can all be sorteed out soon!!

Thanks Mia!

 


#480:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 11:48 am


I go away for two weeks, and the plot bunnies have been working overtime! This is lovely, Mia, and I'm crossing my fingers for Mary-Lou and Rix that they will sort things out.

Thank-you.

 


#481:  Author: JodiLocation: Glasgow most of the time PostPosted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 2:38 pm


PLEASE give us more and sort out the mess...
*sends chocolate and baileys (can't stand the stuff myself!) to feed the plot bunnies*

 


#482:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 9:07 pm


“Are you worried about Uncle Jack and Auntie Jo coming today?”

Rix looked up from the newspaper he had been frowning over and shook his head.

“No, honestly. Don’t worry, Maeve, I promise I’ll be on my best behaviour when they arrive, OK?”

“Well, there must be something wrong.” Maeve persisted, squeezing herself onto the window seat next to him. “You’re moping around like anything. What’s the matter?”

“Oh, nothing really. Just – work stuff. Sorry. I’ll try to cheer up. What plans have you made for today?”

“Well, I’m picking the Maynards up from Sheepheys in ten minutes, then later we thought we could all go down to the beach – us lot anyway, I don’t think Daddy or Mummy will want to come. We could have a swim and a picnic tea. Con’s coming, I expect she’ll want to swim too, and the Wintertons and Mary-Lou. Will you join us?”

“Sure. Who else is going?”

“Everyone, even Daffy. I told her about the bathing in Lake Thun and she’s desperate to learn to swim before she goes to the Chalet School.”

“Daphne’s not going to Switzerland, Maeve. Don’t get her hopes up, it’s not fair.”

“She’s nine soon, that’s old enough for St Agnes’s.” Maeve argued, “But, anyway, Mary-Lou’s going to teach her, she used to win the Swimming cup every year when we were at school.”

“Did you ask Dan Lyndhurst?”

“Yes, he can’t play cricket, but he said he’ll umpire. And Bride’s coming, but she says she’ll just watch and paddle. It’s such a lovely day, we can’t not spend it outside. My last full day at the Quadrant…” Maeve looked wistful. “I wish Maurice was here.”

Rix put his arm around her, “I bet he wishes he was here too. He’ll be back soon though. I’ll write and tell him all about tomorrow and send him the photos, OK? I know how you feel, sometimes I wish Peg wasn’t so far away.”

“Thanks, Rix. You always know the right thing to say.” Maeve said, smiling.

“I wish I did! Come on, I’ll come with you to the station.”

 


#483:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 11:41 pm


Thanks Mia. Very Happy

Rix is such a sweetie.

 


#484:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 12:16 am


Awwwww thanks Mia

I hope Rix will find the right thing to say to Mary-Lou

Liz

 


#485:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 6:50 am


Poor Rix! Thank you Mia.

 


#486:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 9:05 am


Thank you Mia.

 


#487:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 10:42 am


Mary-Lou was pleased about the beach picnic. It had been nearly a year since she’d had time to go swimming. She walked down the steep path to the beach with John Bettany, who was pointing out all the good places from which to dive.

“The cliffs are low about three hundred yards that way – see? We’ve all dived from there before, and that big rock over there is good as well. We’ll have some races later as well.” He told her.

Mary-Lou remembered the cave. She had discussed it with John earlier that morning but forgotten to ask him where the second tunnel went.

“John – where does that other tunnel lead to? It seems to fork off, with one road leading onto the cliffs. We never got chance to explore the other one. Do you know?”

“I’ll show you.” John laughed, “It’s really odd actually, it leads to the cellar of the Quadrant. I told Dad, years ago but he said not to mention it to the others in case the kids went exploring and got hurt. I’d forgotten about it actually, I think it must’ve been an old smugglers’ tunnel at one time. There’s a door made of really thick wood, but the lock was completely rotted away. I can’t believe you got Rix to go down there, you know.”

“I don’t think he ever will again!” Mary-Lou smiled.

“I don’t know. He might if you ask him,” John said, looking directly at her and grinning.

“I don’t know what you mean.” Mary-Lou said at once.

“It doesn’t matter. I’ll show you the cave properly on Sunday afternoon, if you want.” John wondered if the wild theory Maeve had told him about Mary-Lou and Rix was correct after all.

 


#488:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 10:50 am


Please can John and Maeve do something about this as Mary-Lou and Rix seem unable to...maybe there will be an opportunity on the beach??

Thank you Mia!

 


#489:  Author: JodiLocation: Glasgow most of the time PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 11:03 am


for a family of butter-inners, no-one seems to be doing much to get them together!
Thanks Mia

 


#490:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 11:05 am


Ooh the bearch has lots of potential for accidents!!......

*g* at Maeve and Jackie's observations!! Come out, help them out a little! Thanks Mia Very Happy

 


#491:  Author: keren as guest PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 11:49 am


Trap them in the cave again hammer

 


#492:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 12:21 pm


Here's a bit more - a little bit more this afternoon to follow I hope and then it's the wedding!

Rix drove his father’s car to the station with Maeve in the passenger seat and Freddie in the back. It would be a squash going back, but Maeve had wanted Jo to meet her fiancé as soon as possible.

It was a disappointment when they realised that Jack, Felicity and Con had come without Joey. Maeve’s face fell almost comically.

After the introductions, Jack explained that much as Jo had been longing to come to the wedding, they were now grandparents and Jo had wanted to stay with Len.

“A lovely baby girl – nine pounds and healthy. We’ve brought some snaps, haven’t we Con? Len and Reg have called her Laura Emily, to be known as Laura.” Jack explained, “She is sorry, Maeve, she was so torn between wanting to come to your wedding and wanting to stay with Len and our granddaughter. She’s given me a letter for you.”

“It’s fine, I understand.” Maeve said at once. “Can you all squish into the car? Uncle Jack, if you go into the front, I’ll sit on Freddie’s knee.”

Jack got into the car and nodded at Rix.

“Nice to see you again,” he said, trying hard to sound friendly. Rix relaxed slightly.

“You too,” he replied, and the six of them were able to discuss the new Entwistle baby all the way back to the Quadrant.

 


#493:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 12:27 pm


Thanks for the updates, Mia - please can Mary-Lou and Rix sort out their relationship soon? I can see why M-L would be wary of seeing any interest, given the grotty way the Scum has treated her - but I do hope Maeve and John can point the two of them gently in the right direction.

 


#494:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 12:46 pm


Lovely Mia - thanks

Oh - and Maeve I know you're busy with wedding plans, but please just spare a moment to tell your brother and friend to sort themselves out

*off shopping for wedding outfit*

Liz

 


#495:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 2:36 pm


I love this story! Sort yourselves out, Rix and Mary-Lou!

Thank you Mia!

(There are far too many exclamation marks in there, but hey...)

 


#496:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 3:17 pm


Rix walked down to the beach with Daphne running on ahead of him. She was full of excitement at having so many people to talk to and didn’t want to waste a second of the day. He heard footsteps behind him and turned round.

It was David, running to catch him up.

“Hi! Wait for me – I didn’t know you’d left until Aunt Mollie told me. Is everyone down there now?”

“I think so. Here, take this flask, will you? I can manage the rest.”

David took the coffee flask from him. “I saw Mary-Lou go down earlier with Jackie. Did you get chance to speak to her yet? Or do you know if Maeve did?”

“I think you should speak to her yourself. Things get too confused if other people get involved.” Rix said and to his relief, David seemed to accept this.

“I suppose – if you spoke to her she might think you were the one who wanted to propose!” He joked, laughing. “Hey, careful, now you’ve dropped the mugs. Good job they’re plastic.”

“Are you going to propose?” Rix asked, as he picked up the items he’d dropped. “I didn’t think – that you were that serious about her.”

“I think I might be.” David said, easily. “Come on, look, they’re all in the sea already.”

*

Mary-Lou, having swum quite far away from the others, squinted against the sun and saw David and Rix preparing to swim out and join the others. Daphne was waiting at the water’s edge, letting the tide wet her toes but unwilling to paddle out.

Mary-Lou watched David swim over to the group without sparing a glance at Daphne, in direct contrast to Rix who went over to the little girl at once. She was touched at how considerate Rix was.

“Mary-Lou! Fancy a race? “ David asked, surfacing right next to her.

“I’m going to teach Daphne how to swim now, but definitely later.” She replied, pleasantly.

“Oh, she’s fine. Look, Rix is dealing with her. We won’t get the chance later.” He said, frowning slightly.

“I promised her, David. She’s only little. Look, she’s waving to me. I’ll see you later.” Mary-Lou was a powerful swimmer, and faster than David. He half-heartedly tried to chase her, but considered teaching Daphne too boring and swam away to talk to Lalla and Polly.

 


#497:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 4:08 pm


Thanks Mia

Good for Mary-Lou - glad she can outswim David!

Liz

 


#498:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 4:51 pm


Could we arrange for David to be eaten by a passing Great White Shark? No? Oh well, let something show Mary Lou and Rix that they are made for each other Mia, please! Laughing

 


#499:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 5:18 pm


Thank-you for the shiny updates, Mia. *pokes David*

 


#500:  Author: JodiLocation: Glasgow most of the time PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 5:30 pm


how arrogant can you get!
hope she sees through him...come on ML and Rix, sort yourselves out!
Thanks for 3 very shiny updates today *looks hopeful that there might be more soon*

 


#501:  Author: nikkieLocation: Cumbria PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 7:23 pm


So is David going to end up with Polly or Lalla?
Will Jackie get Rix and Mary-Lou stuck in the cave?
Will Maeve get her wedding without problems?
This sounds like a soap now so I'll stop!!!!!!!!!
Thanks Mia

 


#502:  Author: AlexLocation: Hunts, UK PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 7:38 pm


Thanks, Mia. You are such a prolific (?sp) poster, I'm so impressed.

*Holds David's head under the water whilst no-one's looking Embarassed *

 


#503:  Author: aitchemelleLocation: West Sussex PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 8:03 pm


Thankyou Mia!

Had lost track but now caught up! *pokes rl*

Very Happy

 


#504:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 8:38 pm


Huh! to David.

Come on Rix and ML, sort yourselves!

 


#505:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 9:48 pm


Fab updates but c'mon - drown Daphne!!!

 


#506:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 9:58 pm


Frances wrote:
Quote:
Fab updates but c'mon - drown Daphne!!!


Laughing She is a bit irritating isn't she - she obviously needs a good dose of the Chalet School!

ETA can someone please PM how to quote properly? Pleeese!!

 


#507:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 14, 2005 10:15 pm


have PM'd you Mia

Liz

 


#508:  Author: keren as guest PostPosted: Wed Jun 15, 2005 8:43 am


Daphne will be the catalyst.
She will tell them that they love each other1

 


#509:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 15, 2005 8:52 am


Yay! Please can teaching Daphne be what makes them realise...David is selfish isn't he!

Thank you Mia!

 


#510:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Wed Jun 15, 2005 12:56 pm


I think David should propose in front of everyone so his ego can be deflated a bit when she says no and then Rix can whisk her away. Either that or David should be eaten by an shark Very Happy

Thanks Mia.

 


#511:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 17, 2005 10:31 pm


Daphne had been persuaded to wade out so the water level was at her waist, but both her eyes were screwed tightly shut and she was clinging to Rix’s hand.

“Hi Rix.” Mary-Lou said, awkwardly. She cringed to remember how she had fled in the taxi outside the hospital. “How are you getting on, Daphne?”

“It’s cold!” Daphne squealed. “And the water keeps trying to knock me over. Will it be this cold when I go to the Chalet School?”

“We haven’t made much progress.” Rix said, laughing.

“Mary-Lou promised to teach me. Will you, please, Mary-Lou?”

“Only if you open your eyes.” Mary-Lou said, promptly, motioning for Rix to let go of Daphne’s hand. The two of them spent the next half hour or so teaching Daphne intensively, and at the end of it she could swim two or three stokes, only doggy paddle, but unaided. Her small face glowed with triumph.

“What do you say, Daph?” Rix said, splashing her. He was stood waist-deep in the sea, and Mary-Lou turned to look at him, noticing that the cuts and bruises on his side had healed to practically nothing. He caught her eye.

“Thanks, Mary-Lou.” Daphne said, before running out of the sea towards Freddie, who was waving a bucket and spade at her.

“Your side – how is it?” Mary-Lou asked, feeling awkward.

“Oh, it’s completely fine.” He replied, sensing her awkwardness and wondering why. “It hurt for a day or two, but honestly, I’m fine now.”

“I’m glad.” Mary-Lou said, “Is your girlfriend coming to the wedding?”
“I don’t have one of those.” Rix said, laughing. “No girl would ever put up with the hours I work...”

“Rix – who was that girl you were with – outside your hospital? I-I saw you, a few weeks ago. It was the day you brought that gold cigarette lighter to the Museum.” Mary-Lou asked.

He frowned, remembering how she had fled. “I was going to ask you about that – you seemed so – there’s nothing wrong, is there?”

“What do you mean, is nothing wrong? I don’t understand.”

“Well – you dashed off like that – and, it is a hospital. I didn’t – I was concerned you’d had bad news.”

“Oh, heavens, no. No, honestly! I-I, well, I’d had a bad day and I just wanted to go home. I was appallingly rude not to say hello, I am sorry.”

“It’s fine – the girl I was with, that was Gina. She’s a nurse at the hospital, and my former girlfriend. We’re just friends now.” Rix wondered if this was an opportunity to ask Mary-Lou about what her colleague and Gerard Ellingham had hinted.

“Your ex – I see.” Mary-Lou ducked under the water to hide her blushes. She knew he was telling the truth. She wondered what he would say if he knew she’d spent the last two years having an affair with a married man.

Rix swore under his breath as he saw David swimming over to them. He wasn’t in the mood to listen to David’s flirting. David always knew how to talk to women when he, Rix, ended up tongue-tied and coming across as aloof and far too serious.

When David reached them, he made his excuses and swam back to the beach, where he joined Freddie, Daphne and Daniel, who were making a sandcastle. It was only later on, as they were all returning to the Quadrant after a picnic and a riotous game of cricket, that it occurred to him to wonder why Mary-Lou had asked her question.

 


#512:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jun 17, 2005 10:42 pm


Yeah, start thinking Rix - why would she be interested???

Thanks Mia.

 


#513:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 17, 2005 10:58 pm


Sorry for the almost-spree... I'm sooo pleased the board is back!!


Later in the Quadrant, Rix found his favourite place, the hidden little window seat in the L-shaped drawing room, drew the curtain half-closed behind him and settled down quietly with the paper he was writing for a medical journal and all his notes. Everyone else was playing cards in the dining-room or gathered in Maeve’s bedroom to admire the dress or else changing for dinner and he wanted to get his work finished before the wedding the next day.

Despite his intentions, he soon found his mind wandering and ended up gazing out of the window at the sea below, feeling drowsy. It was stuffy in the south-facing room and he had slept badly the night before. He closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep.

The sound of voices woke him and he sat up, about to declare his presence, until the sound of his own name stopped him in his tracks.

“Dick, I’ve no intention to stir everything up again – you know how sorry I am that we argued, but I wanted to ask – did Rix tell you why he didn’t want to work for me? Don’t worry, I’m not going to mention it to him, but I was – I am, rather concerned. I remember when he first started his medical training, he was very enthusiastic and then – well, he’s never given me an explanation and I wondered if he had you.”

Rix despised eavesdropping. He tried to open the sash window, but it was locked and the window key missing. He didn’t want to declare his presence and discuss the San for the hundredth time, but nor did he want to be discovered in such a dishonourable situation.

He stuffed his fingers in his ears and stayed as still as he could, hoping that they would go before Daphne came looking for him. They both spoke rather loudly and unfortunately, he could still hear them both quite clearly.

“He hasn’t mentioned anything to me or Moll.” Dick was saying, “Though I rather wanted to ask. I am concerned, he does look rather pale and I know he isn’t sleeping very well.”

“I did notice. He seems very reluctant to speak to me – and – well, I know how stressful things can be when you work in a busy hospital. It would be dreadful to see all that talent go to waste through some kind of breakdown.” Jack said.

“Do you really think that could happen?” Dick sounded extremely worried, and Rix couldn’t bear it any longer. Swallowing the anger he felt welling up inside him, mindful of what had happened last time a similar discussion had taken place, he willed himself to be calm and not lose his temper. After taking a few deep breaths, he jumped down from the window seat and walked determinedly to face them.

“I’m sorry, I must’ve dozed off on the window seat – I was just doing some work.” He said, trying to sound friendly and unconcerned. “I haven’t missed dinner, have I?”

“No.” Dick looked from his son to his brother-in-law in dismay. “It’s only six and we won’t eat till eight tonight.”

“I couldn’t help overhearing. I didn’t mean to listen…”

“We really should have a proper talk.” Jack said, taking charge. “Clear the air completely.”

“All right.” Rix said, realising that it was inevitable.

“Why don’t you go into the Library? You can talk quite privately in there.” Dick said, encouragingly. “Do you want me to come with you?”

“I think it’s better if Rix and I...” Jack began.

“I was talking to my son.” Dick said, becoming annoyed with Jack’s imperious manner.

“No, it’s fine, Dad. I’ll come and have a chat with you before dinner, OK?”

“I’ll look forward to it.” Dick said, and left them.

Rix pushed open the door to the rarely-used Library, and sat down at the large table. Jack sat opposite him, for a few moments they sat in silence

“I’ll tell you why I can’t join the San.” Rix said, finally.

 


#514:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 12:06 am


Thanks for the updates Mia

*curious about why Rix can't join the San*

*hoping Rix and Mary-Lou stop dithering about*

Liz

 


#515:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 12:49 am


Mia! You've left us on a cliff! Why doesn't Rix want to work at the San?

 


#516:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 6:32 am


Interested in why Rix doesn't want to join the San, annoyed with Jack for assuming that there must be something wrong with Rix - what's wrong with the fact that he prefers to be working in a different speciality? Also annoyed with Jack for his arrogance.

Thanks Mia.

 


#517:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 8:39 am


Poor Rix! Not nice to be caught in such a situation. Looking forward to hearing his reasons, and I hope Jack accepts them. Thanks Mia Very Happy

 


#518:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 11:01 am


I've caught up with this now Mia, when's the next bit?

Pleading smiley.

 


#519:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 12:27 pm


“I don’t expect you’ll understand.” he continued.

“Why don’t you try me? I might.” Jack said, for once sounding sympathetic, almost the old Uncle Jack to whom Rix remembered confiding all his childhood problems.

“All right, I’ll tell you.” Rix said, reluctantly. “You see, I’m a…”




Twisted Evil

 


#520:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 12:33 pm


Nice cliff, Mia.

*Settles down to watch others hurtling down....rubs on sun block - it's hot!!*

 


#521:  Author: aitchemelleLocation: West Sussex PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 1:04 pm


Mia That's NORTY!

Lesley *shakes head* don't encourage her!!

 


#522:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 2:09 pm


Oooh, Mia, I see you've been taking lessons off Fran and Lesley! Looking forward to Rix's big confession. Very Happy

 


#523:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 2:14 pm


Mia! Honestly, so much suspense in just one drabble!

 


#524:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 2:45 pm


Mia, how could you?

 


#525:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 8:09 pm


more please,
I thought you said you were almost finished!

 


#526:  Author: nikkieLocation: Cumbria PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 8:29 pm


*HELP, I'm holding on by my fingertips, someone pull me up*

Mia COME BACK NOW!

Lesley will you stop running advanced cliff buiding courses!

 


#527:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 9:47 pm


*gives nikkie a hand up*

Thanks Mia

looking forward to more soooooooon please

Liz

 


#528:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 10:41 pm


*wanders in*

*sees cliff*

*dithers about a bit, then decides what the h*ll and jumps off*

In your own time, Mia - these trampolines are quite fun! Laughing Wink

 


#529:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 11:32 pm


keren wrote:
I thought you said you were almost finished!


I was! *sulks* but then someone obviously sent my PB some baileys without telling me! Very Happy

I am nearly finished tho - I even have some notes of how it ends!

*V pleased with self*

 


#530:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 9:16 am


Miiiiiiiiia! I thought that was an update!

 


#531:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 10:47 am


*echoes above - twice as loudly* please come back soon and post more!

 


#532:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 11:04 am


“I’m a socialist. I don’t agree with private medicine, I don’t see why you should charge vast amounts of money to treat your patients and I don’t want to be part of it.” Rix said, frankly.

Too frankly. Jack started to look annoyed. “You don’t know what you’re talking about.” He replied, “No, let me speak now. There’s a simple, economic reason why I charge my patients, I have a family to provide for. Anyway,” he continued in tones of scorn, “How can you reconcile being a socialist with your public school education? Your being your father’s heir to all this? You’re talking absolute rubbish.”

“I’m not. None of that matters. I’ve been going to the Marxist Society meetings, and we - ”

“Of course it matters! That’s what your working class friends want, to pull down all of this and have us all living in slums! And are you completely ignorant of current affairs – Russia, Hungary? I’ve never heard such utter rubbish!”

“You can insult me all you like, but I am not leaving the NHS. I said I would help people and I will. I’m not working for you and that’s the end of the matter. I don’t want to fall out again over this, so please don’t ask me ever again.” Rix stood his ground.

“I don’t see how you working yourself into a nervous breakdown for nothing will help anyone.”

“Don’t call my patients nothing. How many people have you turned away because they couldn’t afford treatment?”

“I’ve never turned away a patient, Richard. I’m not a complete monster, despite your charming opinion of me. The San has taken on plenty of charity cases…”

“But it shouldn’t be charity! People should be entitled to healthcare – it shouldn’t just be a privilege for those who can afford to pay for it.”

“Fine. I won’t ask you again.” Jack said, “I can’t say I’m not disappointed, but – you’ve heard it all before. I am glad you could give me a proper explanation, even if we will have to agree to disagree.”

Rix nodded, then spoke,

“Uncle Jack – can I just ask, why did you want me to join the San? I mean me, specially. I’m not a thoracic surgeon…”

Jack sighed. “I need new ideas as well as someone who will help me with the finances. I know you helped your father out of the mess he was in and - I don’t know. I suppose I always saw you running the San after me. I don’t think any of my sons will take up medicine and Margot couldn’t run it.”

“I’m sorry.” Rix said, then he looked up at Jack. “Are you in trouble financially?”

“Not yet, but we will be before long. I have less than seventy cases of TB, mostly elderly folk who left it till it was almost too late before they sought treatment. Most of them are terminal… Contrary to what you’re thinking, I have been using the latest treatments. Nevertheless, I expect they will be the last and we will have to change our focus or close. I’m not worried about myself, I have a decent pension and we have your Aunt Jo’s income, but the younger doctors – they would all lose their jobs… Promise me you won’t mention this to your Aunt Jo or any of the children.”

“I’ll come out and visit and see if there’s any way I can help, if you want.” Rix offered, reluctantly, but not liking seeing his uncle so clearly at the end of his tether. “I can’t promise I will be able to help, but if I had a clearer idea of what you needed, I could speak to a few people. Could I look at your books?”

“Of course! Thank you. When can you come?”

“August, maybe. I’ll write and let you know.”

“That would be marvellous. Look, I’m sorry I said those things. You are entitled to hold your own beliefs. But socialism… I didn’t expect that. Have you stopped going to church? What does your father say, or doesn’t he know?”

“I will tell him – and you can tell him that I’m not having a nervous breakdown. I’m not and it’s not good to worry him,” like you did last time went unsaid.

“I’ll tell him I was wrong, but you do look very pale. I can give you some sleeping tablets if you want?”

“I’m fine. Look, it’s getting late and I have to change – I’ll have to go.”

“Wait, Rix – I’m glad we straightened it out. I really am.”

“Me too.” Rix said shortly, before he left Jack in the Library.

*

He ran his father down in his dressing-room, where he was changing.

“Sit down, how did things go?” Dick asked at once.

“All right.”

“Come on, are you going to Switzerland or aren’t you?”

“Just for a week, to help him out. He said he’s struggling, but don’t tell anyone. Don’t tell Aunt Jo, will you?”

“I don’t want you throwing away a perfectly decent job to work for Jack Maynard if it’s financially insecure…”

“I’m not. It’ll only be a week. It’s not about the money, anyway, is it? It’s about doing the right thing.” Rix hunted in his pockets for his cigarettes. “That’s what you always told us.”

“True. But you know that your mother and I only want you to be happy. Are you happy?”

“I’m fine.” Rix said, although Mary-Lou’s face crossed his mind at once. He wanted to confide in his father, but his habitual reserve stopped him doing so.

“Only you come home at weekends and you seem exhausted, but I hear you moving around in your room until the early hours. You smoke too much and don’t eat enough… You don’t need to do any more than you’re doing, you know. Jack said something about a breakdown and - ”

“I’m just busy, I’ve just taken my final assessments for the MRCS and I’m doing a lot of research on top of my normal shifts. It won’t last forever.”

“Good. Come on, you’d better change. The dinner bell will go in a few minutes.”

“There’s something else I should tell you.” Rix repeated what he had told Jack. The bell rang for dinner before he had finished, but neither of them paid any attention.

 


#533:  Author: tiffinataLocation: melbourne, australia PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 11:34 am


OOOOhhhh! Shock horror!

Is that a red under the bed I spy before me? Laughing

 


#534:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 1:35 pm


Very interested to hear what Dick's reaction will be!
And please let Rix and ML sort things out!

 


#535:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 2:00 pm


Hmm, quite a tangle there.

 


#536:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 9:27 pm


thanks Mia

*wondering how Dick will react*

Liz

 


#537:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 9:36 pm


“Why are you so late, Rix?” Daphne asked at once, in her usual loud tones.

“Ssh, Daph… “ Rix sat down in between his sisters as unobtrusively as possible while his father sat down at the head of the table, still frowning thunderously.

“Are you in trouble?” Daphne persisted, while Bride looked at him in concern.

“No, don’t be silly.” Rix said at once, pushing the food around on his plate. It had been a very trying twenty minutes’ discussion with his father who had taken the news worse than Jack had and said some very cutting things. Their lateness to dinner had aroused some notice.

Rayner was sat on the other side of Daphne. He leaned back and raised an eyebrow in inquiry but Rix ignored him.

Mary-Lou was sitting fairly near by, and she too was looking at him with a question in her eyes. He sighed, now she knew he was in yet another family row.

“What are the plans for tonight?” he asked Bride quickly, before Daphne could burst out with another question.

“Nothing, really. Most people are having early nights. We might have some singing in the drawing-room, but I don’t expect it’ll go on for long. Joining us?”

“You’ve heard me sing before, you can’t want to inflict that on everyone.” Rix said, distractedly, watching his father talking to his mother.

“You could accompany.” Bride suggested, mildly.

“I’ve got work to do and I’m exhausted, please, Bride. I’m sure you can get someone else to do it.” He growled.

“Fine.” Bride snapped back, snubbed, and turned to make small talk with David on her left, who looked amused at the squabble.

Rix thought the meal would never end, when at last the ladies retired to the drawing-room, he made his excuses and left too.

Annoyed with himself because he’d left his notes on the window seat in the drawing-room and seeing no way of retrieving them without being asked to play the piano, he pulled off his tie and left via the kitchen door to walk along the cliffs.

He had barely reached the kitchen garden gate, when someone called his name. He cursed, the last thing he wanted now was more conversation.

 


#538:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 9:42 pm


Oh but he might if it's Mary-Lou

Please Mia - send Mary-Lou to talk to him and be sympathetic and clear up their misunderstanding

Liz

 


#539:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 9:43 am


“Richard! Where are you going?” Francis Rayner caught up with him and grinned. “There’s a great furore going on in your drawing-room, I never knew you were in such demand as a pianist.”

“I’m going for a walk.” Rix said, shortly.

“You’re sulking.” Rayner seemed amused. “Why? What’s wrong?” he suddenly frowned, “Is it that idiot uncle of yours going on about that blasted clinic of his?”

“No – oh no, I said I’d go out there … No, now it’s my father. I told him the real reason why I didn’t want to join the San and he – just took off. Now I’m the stupid child that didn’t have the sense to jump at Uncle Jack’s job offer and even worse, a Communist as well. He’s done a complete U-turn, 360 degrees… What?”

“You mean 180 degrees.” Rayner grinned. “Go on.”

Rix managed to smile. “No, it’s too depressing. Please tell me they didn’t send you to fetch me back?”

“No, I said we had to work matters to discuss. As we have. Where are we walking?”

“Along the cliffs and maybe to the village.” Rix said, vaguely.

“Did you say you were going out to Switzerland? Please tell me I misheard.”

“No, I said I’d go out there for a week or so, in August. He said he’s got financial difficulties, and it might mean that they’d all lose their jobs. Look, Frank – I know what you’re going to say, but some of the doctors out there are people I’ve known for years, or family – Laurie Rosomon was pretty decent to me when I was first training. And, well, Jack is my uncle isn’t he? I do owe him something.”

“A week maybe, not your whole career, wasting your time in the back of beyond, treating rich old dears wanting a holiday in the Alps with large legacies to leave your crumbling Sanatorium…”

They walked to the village pub and Rayner bought them some whisky. Rix told him the full story of the discussion with his father, knowing that Rayner himself was rather socialist in outlook. To his surprise, Rayner was not very sympathetic.

“Let me get this straight – you told your father, who spent twenty years working for the gain of the British Empire in India, who sent you to public school, who owns a great deal of land – that you are not only a socialist, but a Marxist too? No wonder he was upset with you. Can’t you see it? It’s setting yourself up as the exact opposite of him and incredibly ungrateful to boot.”

“I hadn’t thought of that. It does seem like that, but I didn’t mean to – It didn’t occur to me. I don’t see Dad like that…”

“I’m sure he’ll come round, he seems a reasonable sort. I’ll speak to him if you like. But cut down your hours, take a few weekends off to spend time with your family, won’t you? That’s probably my greatest regret, that I spent too much time at work and not enough with Elizabeth or Michael when they were alive.”

“Of course… thanks for listening. Would - you speak to Dad?”

“If you want me to. If we go head back now I expect he’ll still be around. You don’t want this sort of family tension at a wedding, you know.”

“I know. Thanks.”

They walked back to the Quadrant, mostly in silence. Mary-Lou saw them return out of the drawing-room window and found herself compelled to excuse herself and go to meet them.

 


#540:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 10:02 am


Thank you Mia. Glad Rix is starting to be honest with people and am sure Dick will come round given time...now we just need Rix and Mary-Lou to sort things out...

 


#541:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 10:22 am


Thank goodness Rayner managed to talk some sense into Rix. Now, let's get him married to OOAO.

 


#542:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 10:55 am


One more day (in their world) and then a happy or otherwise ending will be revealed!


She found them both smoking in a small sitting-room off the main hallway.

“Hello.” She said, self-consciously, smoothing down the skirt of her dramatic, dark red dress. “I saw you from the window. Is everything all right? You looked rather bothered at dinner. I don’t mean to pry, but… I’m sorry, I am prying.” She stopped talking, aware of Rayner looking at her with some confusion.

“Of course not.” Rix said at once, “I’m fine, thanks.”

“We had to discuss something privately, so we went to the village.” Rayner added. “Miss Trelawney – Mary-Lou, I mean, I wonder, have we met previously? I don’t mean in the Savoy, but I do seem to remember that striking dress.”

Mary-Lou looked up at him and Rix’s words came back, that Rayner was a friend of Gerard’s, that he knew him from school. She felt hot, then cold. In a second he would figure out where he had seen her, on Gerard’s arm at a dinner dance or reception and Rix would find out and he would think the worst of her.

“I-I don’t think so… These dresses must be ten-a-penny…” she managed.

“Are you all right? Here, sit down, you’re as white as a sheet.” Rix said at once. “I’ll fetch you some water.”

“I’ll be fine. I just – I’m rather tired.” Mary-Lou replied, sitting down.

Rayner looked at her and then realised where he had seen her before. Not looking so terrible as she did now, but calm, collected and really rather beautiful; so obviously with Gerard Ellingham at the Cartwrights’ last party.

Mary-Lou caught his eye and she knew that he knew. Tears welled up in her eyes, knowing that he would undoubtedly tell Rix she had had an affair with a married man.

 


#543:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 11:00 am


Oh dear Mary-Lou's past is catching up with her...

Thank you Mia!

 


#544:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 11:02 am


thanks for the update.
Maybe while Rix is away she can tell him that she did not know that Gerard was married and please not to saying anything to Rix???? Heart

 


#545:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 12:13 pm


Tons of updates - thank-you, Mia. This is getting more and more intriguing (have to say, I rather thought that Rix was a Commie *feels smug*).

I wonder how M-L will tell Rix - because I think she has to: she shouldn't ask Rayner not to tell. I think Rix would be more bothered that it was Gerard (who's the antithesis of everything Rix believes in) rather than him being married. Looking forward to seeing how she does confess...

 


#546:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 12:14 pm


oooh... now what?!?
Lots of great updates, thanks Mia

 


#547:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 2:24 pm


Rayner offered her a cigarette.

“I must be mistaken,” he said, politely. “I think, as you say, I just remember a similar dress from a dinner I went to at the Royal College of Surgeons.”

“No thanks, I’d better think about going upstairs. I’m rather tired.”

Rix came back with the water. Rayner watched him and put two and two together.

“I think an early night would be a good idea,” he said, finally. “Things always look better in the morning, don’t they? If you’ll excuse me, I’ll just go and have a word with your father, Richard. Goodnight to you both.”

“Goodnight.” Rix said, watching Mary-Lou also make her farewells and escape up to her bedroom. After a few minutes, he turned off the sitting-room lights and went upstairs to his own room.

*

The next day was sunny, a perfect June day. Rix was up very early after quite a decent night’s sleep and he felt better than he had done for months.

The wedding ceremony would take place at St Mary’s Church in the village at midday and the large evening reception would take place in the seldom-used Quadrant ballroom. Freddie had engaged a firm to redecorate it, restoring it to its former glory and another to handle the decorations for the wedding, which had been finished yesterday. Rix thought he would go and have a look at it for something to do.

He pushed open the heavy double doors and found someone else already up and sat playing the grand piano.


Last edited by Mia on Mon Jun 20, 2005 3:15 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#548:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 3:09 pm


So who is sat playing the grand piano...someone else who can't sleep?

Thans Mia...liking the lots of updates and looking forward to the rest!! Very Happy

 


#549:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:00 pm


Lots of lovely updates Razz

Thank you Mia. I will admit I checked which house this is in when I saw
Quote:
I'm a ....
Embarassed

 


#550:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:16 pm


This is really flowing today!
Pat - ROFL


“Oh, it’s only you.” Daphne said, turning around. “I was practising my song.”

“What song is that, Daph?” Rix crossed the large room to stand next to her.

“I’m singing this at the wedding.” Daphne flourished her music at her brother, “For all the guests. Maeve said I could if I wanted.”

“What did Dad and Mother say?” Rix asked, pointedly. Daphne had far too high an opinion of her undoubted talent for singing and the Bettanys had decided a long time ago to gently squash any kind of conceit she might show.

Daphne scowled. “Dad said no, but I don’t care!”

“What a hideous child you can be.” Rix grinned, then pushed her off the stool, sitting down himself. “Let’s hear this song then.”

Daphne usually needed no encouragement to sing, but his casual amusement confused her. “What’s hidjous?” she asked, forgetting her bad mood as he had intended.

“Completely dreadful. How long have you been thumping away on this piano? It’s only six. Listen, why don’t you sing the song for me later? I’m sure Bride and Simon would like to hear as well, and Con and Felicity. That would be better than singing for all the guests wouldn’t it?”

“OK then.” Daphne said, sweetly, trying to do a cartwheel on the well-polished floor.

“Shall we ask Cook for some breakfast?”

“OK. Rix, when you get married can I wear a blue dress like Mary-Lou’s? The princess dress?”

“Daph, if I ever get married, you can wear whatever you like.” Rix said, distractedly, thinking about Mary-Lou in her ‘Princess’ dress.

“When do you think you’ll get married? You’re lots older than Maeve.” Daphne continued, dancing across the room.

“Only six years, you little horror. And you don’t ask people questions like that anyway.”

“Why not?” Daphne asked, at once.

“Because – what if I said I wanted to get married to a beautiful girl and she didn’t want to get married to me? Then I’d feel pretty bad, wouldn’t I?” Rix said, lightly. “You shouldn’t ask questions that might make people feel unhappy.”

“Why wouldn’t the beautiful girl want to get married to you?” Daphne slipped her cold little hand into his.

“Well, she might just want to be free.” Rix said, thinking of Gina, “Or she might have another man she rather liked… I don’t know, do I?”

“If she had another man, that would be hidjous.” Daphne said, solemnly. “I think Mary-Lou is a beautiful girl, don’t you?”

 


#551:  Author: RuthYLocation: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:19 pm


Just caught up with this

Really enjoying this!

You seem to post very quickly one after the other Mia it's great!

Mia wrote:
and then a happy or otherwise ending will be revealed!


I hope it's a happy ending Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation

Ruth


Last edited by RuthY on Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:30 pm; edited 2 times in total

 


#552:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:23 pm


Thank you Mia! *hoping for a happy ending, but thinking that an unhappy ending is more likely to result in a sequel...*

 


#553:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:24 pm


See Rix poke Daphne. ROFL

 


#554:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:25 pm


RuthY wrote:
You seem to post very quickly one after the other Mia


I know, a bit of a spreeing session today, I'm afraid! Norty of me! Wink

 


#555:  Author: RuthYLocation: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:28 pm


Mia wrote:
RuthY wrote:
You seem to post very quickly one after the other Mia


I know, a bit of a spreeing session today, I'm afraid! Norty of me! Wink


It's great news for us though.

Wish I could ask for another update but it seems inappropriate looking at the amount we've had recently Smile

Ruth

 


#556:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:31 pm


Thank you for all the updates Mia - I will be very sad when this finishes!

I am obviously less polite than Ruth so I will ask for more!

 


#557:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 7:31 pm


Thanks for all the updates, Mia. Now for the ending, please.

 


#558:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 8:04 pm


Mary-Lou? Beautiful?

*hmmmmmms*

but if it gets M-L and Rix together then fine!!!

thank you for the squillions of updates Mia!

 


#559:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 10:09 pm


Oooooh so many lovely updates, what a treat! Thank you Mia Very Happy

 


#560:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 12:17 am


Also hoping for a happy ending (am in fluffy bunny mode today! Laughing )

Thanks for all the updates today, Mia Very Happy

 


#561:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 7:18 am


Thanks Mia

*adds to pleas for a happy ending*

(after all that doesn't preclude a sequel Wink )

Liz

 


#562:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 9:08 am


Please can we have a happy ending????

lots of lovely updates thank you - hope Daphne continues to torment Rix so he actually does something...

 


#563:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 9:31 am


“Yes, she is.” Rix replied. He played the first few notes of Daphne’s music, and then closed the lid of the piano. “Come on, we’d better go and see what we can get for breakfast. Maeve won’t want us in here messing everything up.”

They ate cornflakes at the kitchen table, talking to Cook about the wedding. Afterwards Daphne went off to find her mother and Rix to retrieve his notes from the drawing-room.

*

At twelve, they were all dressed in their finery and sat in the church, waiting for the bride to make her entrance.

Mary-Lou sat quietly, lost in her own thoughts. She had been invited to sit with the Bettanys but had decided to sit just behind them, next to Daniel Lyndhurst who also seemed rather preoccupied. Rayner sat down on her other side and gave her an unexpectedly warm smile.

She smiled back, rather relieved. She knew beyond a doubt that he had recognised her from one of the events she had attended with Gerard and had taken in every aspect of the situation. She had expected him to be disgusted or worse, think of her as available. The fact that he obviously thought neither made her feel ever so slightly better, although she still felt ashamed of herself.

She glanced at Rix, who was acting as usher; he looked very handsome. She bit her lip as she saw to whom he was speaking; it was Gerard and his wife.

 


#564:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 9:34 am


uh-oh...I can see everything coming to a head soon...Gerard, Rayner, Mary-Lou, Rix surely that has to be a bad combination...

Thanks Mia!

 


#565:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 10:58 am


and think you're forgetting David, Nell.

This could be interesting!!

thanks Mia!

 


#566:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 11:19 am


As discreetly as she could, Mary-Lou pulled her hat down slightly to cover her face and watched Gerard looking for a seat on the opposite side. His wife was a few years younger than him, very beautiful and dressed expensively, although she looked rather bored and her mouth had a discontented droop; she surveyed the proceedings with a disdainful expression.

Rayner saw her looking over and also her expression. He frowned and decided to speak to her. He was just leaning forward to speak, but at that point the organist started up and people turned to see the bride enter the church on her father’s arm.

Maeve looked very pretty in her white satin dress and her mother’s veil of delicate point d’Alencon lace. The vicar started the service and Mary-Lou forgot everything and listened to him. Freddie was unusually quiet and the guests could hardly hear his responses. All too soon they were signing the register and the ceremony was over.

They were throwing confetti and congratulating the bride and groom before Gerard noticed Mary-Lou. He froze and stared at her, then at his wife, looking wild. He then gave Mary-Look such a nasty look that she was startled. David, who was stood nearby also noticed it and looked at Mary-Lou in surprise.

“What’s the matter with him? Who is he anyway?”

“Gerard Ellingham… He’s nobody, h-he sponsors the exhibitions at the Museum sometimes.” Mary-Lou said, hesitantly.

“Oh, I know him. He’s putting up all the money for Rix’s hospital, isn’t he? I say, I wouldn’t quarrel with him, old girl. He's far from being nobody and he probably holds Rix’s whole career in his hands at the moment.” David laughed and went to kiss the new Lady Brentford, leaving Mary-Lou aghast.

 


#567:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 11:23 am


Oh help!!! I just hope someone can sort this out...

Thanks Mia!

 


#568:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 11:26 am


Oh dear what a mess, *shouts at David and Gerald*

Please let something really nasty happen to Gerald, please!! Thanks Mia

 


#569:  Author: Guest PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 12:35 pm


Eeek! Mia, please sort this out (and let something nasty happen to Gerard, please, without hurting Mary-Lou)!

((Mary-Lou)) and ((Rix))

Thank-you.

 


#570:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 2:21 pm


Mary-Lou barely tasted her food at the meal, nor heard the speeches. She knew she would have to talk to Rix before Gerard did, if he hadn’t already. And Rayner – he knew everything, she was sure of that and he might decide to warn Rix that she was – she was - .

She stared miserably at the floor.

David tried to engage her in conversation a few times, but he soon gave up and flirted with one of Freddie’s young blonde cousins.

Mary-Lou thought the day would never end and planned to excuse herself from the evening reception as soon as she decently could, however, Lady Brentford sought out her company and it was more difficult to slip away that she had anticipated.

“Mary-Lou, Aunt Annabelle, could I fetch you some champagne?” Dan Lyndhurst asked, in his quiet way. Mary-Lou smiled and accepted, she knew by now that he hated to have any notice taken of his disability, much as she longed to ask him to sit down while she went for the drinks.

“Daniel is a good boy.” Lady Brentford said, regally. “Terribly dedicated to his work, of course. I expect that explains why he has yet to marry. Such a handsome boy, such a shame.” She added, vaguely. Mary-Lou presumed she was referring to his damaged leg, but didn’t comment although she felt indignant on his behalf.

Lady Brentford continued, however.

“My sister and her husband passed away at such a young age and of course, Daniel came to live with us. I wouldn’t hear of anything else, my sister’s boy… And he had polio when he was seven. But my dear, you don’t want to talk to me all evening. Why don’t you dance with one of those young men who wish to dance with you?”

“I don’t think...” Mary-Lou began, doubtfully, but at that point Francis Rayner approached her.


Last edited by Mia on Tue Jun 21, 2005 11:07 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#571:  Author: LucyLocation: Leeds PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 2:38 pm


Lets hope Rayner can sort this out!!

Thanks for all the posts Mia Very Happy

 


#572:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 2:42 pm


Thanks Mia! Please can Francis Raynor do something....

 


#573:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 2:47 pm


love the way you're writing this so fast!

Also hope that Rayner can sort it all out prontissimo!

 


#574:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 3:22 pm


So near the end now... Wink

“Would you care to dance?” he asked Mary-Lou with such determination that she couldn’t refuse.

He was silent for the first few moments of the dance and then spoke with a thoughtful expression on his face.

“I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation with David Russell. I wouldn’t pay him too much attention, my dear. I think Gerard Ellingham would find it very difficult to interfere with internal staff matters, regardless of the amount of money he was prepared to donate.”

His voice was very kind, and Mary-Lou felt relieved.

“I don’t want any trouble for Rix,” she replied at once. “It’s not fair if…”

“I agree.” Rayner cut her off. “I’ll say no more about it, but rest assured that everything will be fine.”

“I didn’t – I didn’t know…”

“I can see you didn’t, believe me when I say that it is not your fault. I’ve known Ellingham for a number of years and, well, I don’t need to spell it out, do I?”

“No,” Mary-Lou blushed.

They danced the rest of the waltz in silence and then he delivered her back to Lady Brentford and Daniel with a rare smile. Mary-Lou felt as if a huge weight had lifted from her shoulders.

She glanced across at Rix, who was dancing with Maeve and she bit her lip. She knew that what she had taken as love for Gerard had been nothing compared to how she felt for Rix and the feeling was torture.

Daniel handed her a glass of champagne and she thanked him. He nodded, but she noticed he was also looking at Rix and Maeve with a strange look in his eyes, one Mary-Lou recognised as being similar to her own. She felt sorry for him, obviously he felt the same way towards Maeve as she did towards Rix and was equally – or even more so – unable to confess his feelings towards his cousin’s new bride.


Last edited by Mia on Tue Jun 21, 2005 6:27 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#575:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 3:25 pm


Oh, it's just all so sad. But we know (or at least hope) that one of the couples will be together soon!

Thank you Mia!

 


#576:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 3:28 pm


Thank you Mia. Well at least Raynor has given some comfort on one thing...and poor Dan!

 


#577:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 3:30 pm


Poor Dan, but Im glad Raynor has made her feel better. Now to find a quiet room nearby and lock them inside!!

Thanks Mia Very Happy

 


#578:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 4:00 pm


Thank you Mia, I could only repeat the above comments so will just say I am looking forward to Rix and Mary-Lou finally having a chat!

 


#579:  Author: RuthYLocation: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 4:08 pm


Thanks Mia

Really enjoyed that updtae!!!!

I'm sad we're coming to the end because its a great story!!!!!

Ruth

 


#580:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 4:18 pm


Lovely, Mia - Rayner is such a sweetie! Poor Daniel - feel really sorry for him. Is this a hint for any subsequent sequel? Pretty please with wild strawberries Very Happy

Thank-you.

 


#581:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 4:30 pm


Thanks Mia, this is great.

Am I the only one who thinks that it might not be Maeve that Daniel was looking at?

 


#582:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 4:32 pm


I hope this isn't too strong - I felt it fitted the volatile situation, but if anyone object pls let me know and I'll change it... Neutral



“You promised me a dance.” David grinned at her, thinking again how pretty she looked and how much she had changed from the slightly officious schoolgirl she had been when he had last seen her properly.

Mary-Lou smiled and allowed him to lead her onto the floor. At that moment, Maeve and Freddie announced their farewells and the dancing was interrupted so that everyone could kiss them goodbye. As they were leaving, the orchestra struck up once more and David led Mary-Lou out onto the dance floor.

Mary-Lou was pleased he had taken the hint and stopped being so flirtatious; she felt she needed her friends. She saw Rayner talking to Dan and Lady Brentford and looked around for Rix.

“Are you looking for someone to rescue you from me?” David said, laughing, completely unable to believe that she would do such a thing.

“Of course not.” She saw Rix dancing with Daphne and resolved to speak to him before the end of the evening. She turned her attention back to David with an apologetic smile.

“I’ve got a few things on my mind, I am sorry, David. I didn’t mean to be so rude,” she added.

“I forgive you.” David said, smoothly, and leaned towards her, anticipating an embrace. Mary-Lou froze.

David stopped dancing and stared at her, confused, but was prevented from questioning her by the appearance of Gerard.

“Enjoying yourself?” he said curtly. He smelt of whisky and seemed intoxicated, nothing like the calm and composed Gerard she was used to seeing. “I expect you are, in your usual fashion.” he sneered.

“I beg your pardon?” David asked, bemused.

“Wrapped around the nearest man,” he said, loudly, regardless of people starting to stare. “I wouldn’t even go there, if I were you, old man. Too many people there before you, if you get my drift.” He gave a nasty laugh, “My god, she didn’t even care that – “

“Leave me alone.” Mary-Lou said, tears falling down her cheeks, “I didn’t know!”

“You didn’t care I was married!” Gerard shouted, as the music stopped.

Mary-Lou looked from David – so obviously not going to intervene – to Gerard, who looked threatening. She took a step backwards, and he followed her, regardless of anything but the fact that she was dancing with another man.

“What did I expect? You’re nothing but a whore!” He shouted. She heard someone – Mollie Bettany? – exclaim; the next thing she knew, Rix was at her side and he had punched Gerard full in the face.


ETA - If I write anything else, I think I will need a beta reader...


Last edited by Mia on Tue Jun 21, 2005 8:28 pm; edited 2 times in total

 


#583:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 4:57 pm


I can see why you might worry, Mia, but I think it fits the situation. Don't blame Rix for punching Gerard one bit. Gerard really is obnoxious - he's a great villain.

((Mary-Lou)) *pokes David again*

Thanks for the updates - how do you write so prolifically? (I'm envious)

ETA Go Rix!

 


#584:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 5:04 pm


Great update! Poor Mary-Lou, and what a wimp David is. Go Rix!

Would love to beta for you btw.

 


#585:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 5:08 pm


Thanks, Mia!

A little forceful, perhaps, but Gerard had it coming, the scumbag!Twisted Evil At least Rix did something, unlike David....

Also glad of Dr. Rayner's reassurances to Mary-Lou, especially given the circumstances.

 


#586:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 5:26 pm


Hurrah! I hope he has a broken nose!!

Thanks Mia - now will everything please be cleared up and happy ever after for Rix & Mary-Lou?

Liz

 


#587:  Author: RuthYLocation: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 6:03 pm


Great updtae Mia

hope there can be a happy ending for Mary-Lou and Rix

I hate Gerard!!!!

Ruth

 


#588:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 6:37 pm


Just caught up since Saturday - thanks Mia, absolutely enthralling story - I think your Francis Raynor is a lovely character - would love to get to know more about him. The Scum is a suitable villain and Rix - wonderful!

Thank you.

 


#589:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 7:58 pm


Not tooo strong.
It is great

 


#590:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 9:03 am


yay! Go Rix!

Now give him a good kicking...

Thanks Mia

 


#591:  Author: Caroline OSullivanLocation: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 10:10 am


Yay! Good for Rix! Hopefully he and Mary Lou will come to their common or garden senses soon Very Happy

I didn't think it was too strong at all but David is a wimp and doesn't deserve your Mary Lou

 


#592:  Author: LucyLocation: Leeds PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 10:19 am


Sitting cheering at my desk - go Rix!!

Thanks for all the fab updates Mia

 


#593:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 10:52 am


Emma A wrote:
Thanks for the updates - how do you write so prolifically?


Lots of travelling on trains over the last two days! Very Happy



Gerard retaliated at once, but Rayner forced them apart before either could damage each other too badly, although Gerard was already holding his nose, which was pouring with blood.

He glared horribly at Rix, “You broke my nose, you little...”

“Be quiet!” Rayner said, authoritatively and such was the force of his personality that Gerard was silenced, although only temporarily. It was enough, however, for Rayner to physically push him out of the room and slam the door behind them.

“Rix – what have you done?” David asked, an expression of complete shock upon his face.

“What you should have done!” Rix retorted, angrily, wincing as he touched his bruised cheekbone.

Dick had been on the far side of the ballroom and hadn’t heard Gerard’s words, he had only seen, as he thought, his son attacking one of the guests.

“What the – what do you think you are doing?!” he demanded, furiously, striding across the room and seizing Rix’s shoulder in a vicelike grip.

“No, it’s all my fault.” Mary-Lou sobbed. “I’m so sorry.”

Dick released Rix and looked down at her. “I think we should all go outside, don’t you? Are you all right, Mary-Lou? I’m sure we can sort this out.”

Rix took Mary-Lou into his arms at once. “Please don’t cry.” He said, gently.

 


#594:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 11:49 am


Yes! Very Happy

Now don't let go of her Rix!

Thanks Mia

Liz

 


#595:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 12:18 pm


LizB wrote:
Now don't let go of her Rix!

Exactly what Liz said!

Thanks, Mia - this is so good!

 


#596:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 12:19 pm


Come on, we want the next bit....

 


#597:  Author: LucyLocation: Leeds PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 12:27 pm


Yeah - the next bit would be good - especially while I'm on my lunch and can actually be on here for once rather than just sneaking on!!!

Where's the scums wife while all this is happening? Feeling a little sorry for her as her husbands just made it so obvious he used to be involved with Mary Lou

 


#598:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 12:38 pm


Lucy wrote:
Where's the scum's wife while all this is happening? Feeling a little sorry for her as her husband's just made it so obvious he used to be involved with Mary Lou

But not that sorry, seeing as she seems to be placated with ruby necklaces after his indiscretions! Yes, more please, Mia!

 


#599:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 1:05 pm


Mary-Lou made a huge effort and got her sobs under control. Dick glared at the orchestra and motioned for them to continue playing, then turned to Mollie.

“Come on, Moll, try and get people dancing again.” He hissed. Mollie nodded and swiftly turned away, urging guests to dance. The majority of them had seen very little of what had occurred anyway and most happily did so.

Dick opened the ballroom doors, to see Francis Rayner attempting to remonstrate with Gerard, whose nose was undoubtedly broken. His expensive suit was blood-splattered.

“The nearest bathroom is there – can you deal with him? We’ll be in the Library.” He said to Rayner.

“Where’s my wife?” Gerard demanded, trying to push past Rayner, who stood firm. “Darn it, Frank, get out of my way! He’s broken my nose, I’m going to call the police…”

“You will not.” Rayner replied in tones of pure ice. “Go and clean yourself up, for heaven’s sake, and I’ll fetch Louise. If she’ll see you!”

Gerard shot a look of pure hatred at him, but between them Dick and Rayner managed to get him into the nearby bathroom and Rix and Mary-Lou, with David trailing along behind, went to the Library as Dick had ordered.

“I can’t believe you did that – “ David said, still shocked, “How could you do that? You’ve thrown away everything…”

“David – shut up!” Rix said, slamming the Library door closed in David’s face, then threw himself onto a chair, his head in his hands. Mary-Lou sat down next to him and took hold of his hands, scarcely realising what she was doing. He looked at her and she started crying again.

“I’m sorry – I’m so sorry.” She repeated, incoherently, into his chest; and he put his arms around her once more, forgetting everything but her presence in his arms.

“Ssh, it’s all right – it’s all right.” he soothed, stroking her hair. “I promise everything will be all right.”

 


#600:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 1:08 pm


Thanks Mia

Is that a promise to us that everything will be alright as well? *looks hopeful*

Liz

 


#601:  Author: RosyLocation: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 1:11 pm


Wow. Stunning. I've just read through everything in one go.
Please let OOAOML realise how amazing Rix is.
I'll have him if she won't!


Last edited by Rosy on Wed Jun 22, 2005 1:22 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#602:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 1:14 pm


This is wonderful Mia.

I'm glad that Maeve had already left... Very Happy

 


#603:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 1:57 pm


Thank you Mia - want to kick David - slime ball! Now let Rix and Mary Lou stay holding onto each other! Laughing

 


#604:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 2:25 pm


They heard voices in the corridor, then the Library door was opened and Dick came in, followed by Mollie and Rayner. David sloped in reluctantly, just before the door closed again.

“Mary-Lou, mavourneen, come with me?” Mollie said, in her motherly way and Mary-Lou allowed herself to be led out of the room, still weeping.

“Are you all right, are you hurt?” Dick asked Rix, still obviously extremely annoyed with him. Rix nodded, although his cheek was sore.

“Well, I’d like an explanation.” Dick pressed on. David and Rix both looked discomforted, neither really wanted to tell him what Gerard had said. Rix couldn’t ever remember his usually laid-back father looking so angry. “I’ve never seen anything like that in my entire life. It’s a good job your sister had already left!”

“He called Mary-Lou a whore. What was I supposed to do?” Rix retorted, but his temper had gone. “I’m sorry, Dad, but – he - ”

“Ellingham won’t call the police.” Rayner said confidently but he looked rather grave.

“He called Mary-Lou what?” Dick was calming down again. “Why on earth would he call her that? Do you know why?”

Rix shook his head, “I only heard him call her that and saw her crying.”

“David? Do you?” Dick insisted.

“We were dancing – he interrupted us. He’s drunk, Uncle Dick.” David repeated Gerard’s awful comments, finishing with the one about Mary-Lou not having cared that he was married.

Rix went rather white. “He implied something similar when I met him for lunch that time. He said – about the donation…” he trailed off, looking at Rayner in dismay.

“Yes, I think we can say we no longer have the donation.” Rayner replied with a wry smile. “However, that’s probably the least of our concerns. If you are trying to say that Ellingham tried to blackmail you with the threat of withdrawing the donation, or taking away your job, then you should tell us now.”

“He didn’t actually say – it was more –"

“Implicit? I see. You should have told me.” Rayner was sympathetic however. “Anyway, it doesn’t matter. And as for this evening, I would have done exactly the same thing.”

He looked at David, meaningfully. David looked away first, flushing angrily.

Dick took charge. “David, thank you, but we no longer need you here. Go back to the dancing, will you?”

David left the room, feeling that nobody thought much of him. He puzzled over the way that Rix had been holding Mary-Lou when the door opened and he realised why his cousin had been so reluctant to enquire about Mary-Lou’s feelings towards him, David. He knew he had lost. He frowned and went to his bedroom to pack his case and find his car keys.

*

“Dad, I’m really sorry.” Rix said, “But can I go, please? I really need to speak to Mary-Lou. I-I need to ask her something.”

“Let me say something before you do.” Dick said, “I’m sorry for the way I spoke to you, both now and yesterday. I’m very proud of you for sticking to your principles, and yes, I have to admit that I probably would have landed that idiot one too. I am most relieved that you aren’t going to be arrested though.” He gave a short laugh.

“There would be too many questions from his wife if he called the police.” Rayner said, shortly. “Wait! Before you speak to Mary-Lou, bear in mind that he would have lied to her from the beginning…”

Rix looked at him.

“But it doesn’t matter.” he said, simply, and left in search of her.


Last edited by Mia on Wed Jun 22, 2005 10:26 pm; edited 2 times in total

 


#605:  Author: Caroline OSullivanLocation: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 3:11 pm


Thank you Mia Very Happy Hope Rix finds Mary Lou soon. Will we see the scene where Frank Raynor gives the evil scumbag his comeupance? Very Happy

Caroline

 


#606:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 3:36 pm


Getting there....!

Thanks Mia Smile

 


#607:  Author: Guest PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 3:36 pm


I just love a happy ending.

This is great Mia. Are you going to tie up the loose ends?

Thanks

 


#608:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 3:38 pm


Guest wrote:
Are you going to tie up the loose ends?


There *may* be a sequel... If you all want one?
I'm hoping to finish this tonight and then I will have to see Wink



In her pretty guest bedroom, Mary-Lou was still crying. She had always rather prided herself on her inner strength and ability to confront disaster head on, but this seemed to wound her more deeply than anything ever had before and it took a long time for her to calm down and stop sobbing.

Running continually through her mind was the awful thought that Rix would now know she was party to adultery and, if she was honest with herself, exactly what Gerard had called her.

He’ll be disgusted, she thought, full of despair. He won’t want to know me. And he’s thrown his career away for nothing.

Mollie was kind, at first she just let Mary-Lou cry, then when it became clear that she wasn’t going to stop, she spoke up.

“It’s not worth crying over any man!” she said, wisely. “Do mop up and wash your face, Mary-Lou, I promise you that nothing ever looks so bad the next morning. Come on, mavourneen.”

Mary-Lou blew her nose and sat up. “I’ll be fine.” She managed to say.

“That’s the spirit! Now give your face a good wash in the basin, and I’ll get you some cocoa… Why, Rix!”

“I need to speak to Mary-Lou, Mother.” Rix said, a determined expression on his face.

 


#609:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 3:50 pm


A sequel a sequel!! *bounces* Yes please!

Hurrah, finally, in a room together. *fetches popcorn*

Thanks Mia Very Happy

 


#610:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 4:27 pm


Mia wrote:


There *may* be a sequel... If you all want one?
I'm hoping to finish this tonight and then I will have to see Wink




Ooooo Please, please. please!

Looking forward to the ending (and the sequel).

 


#611:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 4:30 pm


A sequel would be fabulous! Great updates, thanks Mia. I love Rix!

 


#612:  Author: LucyLocation: Leeds PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 4:49 pm


Also jumping up and down at the thought of a sequel

Mexican Wave Mexican Wave Mexican Wave

Really enjoying this - glad Mary Lou and Rix are finally in the same room. Can't wait to see how this ends Very Happy

 


#613:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 4:52 pm


Mia wrote:
There *may* be a sequel... If you all want one?
I'm hoping to finish this tonight and then I will have to see Wink


Yay! We do, we do!

Just a little concerned that Rix's 'But it doesn't matter' might not have meant what I REALLY hope it meant.

Thanks Mia

Liz

 


#614:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 4:54 pm


Mia wrote:
“There would be too many questions from his wife if he called the police.” Rayner said, shortly. “Wait! Before you speak to Mary-Lou, bear in mind that he would have lied to her from the beginning…”

Rix looked at him.

“But it doesn’t matter.” he said, simply, and left in search of her.

Wow. That was a wonderful thing to say.

Really looking forward to see how Rix and Mary-Lou sort things out (because they are going to, I can tell). Glad that David realised how they feel (hope he feels ashamed of himself), and that Rayner was able to back up Rix even with the threat of the loss of funds for the hospital.

Thank-you very much.

 


#615:  Author: AlexLocation: Hunts, UK PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 5:17 pm


Mia, this is still as wonderful as ever, and I hope a sequel is forthcoming (bunnies permitting).

 


#616:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 5:29 pm


Are you going to finish this tonight.
Are you sure you don't to these for a living?

 


#617:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 5:31 pm


Echoing all the wonderfuls and YES PLEASE for a sequel (sorry, caps lock) Laughing

 


#618:  Author: RuthYLocation: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 5:43 pm


THANKS FOR THE UPDATES!

really enjoying this

agrees that there should be a sequel

RUTH

 


#619:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 5:50 pm


Quote:
““How could you do that? You’ve thrown away everything…”


Up to that point, I had a little sympathy for David - pressured by the family and so on - but he's not just a wimp, he is just out for the money! Grrr.

Looking forward to the happy ending (fingers crossed) and sending lots of bunny food to boild up his/her strength for the sequel

 


#620:  Author: RosyLocation: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 6:07 pm


You can't leave it there!

*stamps feets*

Please don't leave it there!

A sequel. Please!

 


#621:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 6:31 pm


*Adding to pleas for a sequel!*

Thank you Mia!

 


#622: A Friend of the family Author: Elder in OntarioLocation: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 7:30 pm


Adds to the calls for a sequel - but *please* come back and finish this off tonight first!!!

 


#623:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 8:20 pm


Thanks so much for all the lovely comments!


Mollie looked startled, but she left them at once. Rix sat down on the bed next to Mary-Lou. He longed to take her into his arms, but knew they needed to discuss what had happened, and eventually, the way he felt about her.

She spoke before he could, “I didn’t know he was married at first.” she began, quietly, “It was more than two years ago now. I’d started at the Museum and I loved it there. I worked really hard, Rix, and I was good at my work. I got a promotion quite quickly and the girls I worked with, that I thought I was friendly with, didn’t want to talk to me any more. I-I wasn’t involved with him then, but I knew him, he was offering to fund one of my exhibitions.”

“You don’t need to explain anything to me.” Rix said, taking hold of her hand.

“No, I want to. You deserve an explanation.” Mary-Lou said. “I can’t believe how stupid and naïve I was. He lied to me, but the signs were there. I just chose to ignore them. I was lonely – he was so nice to me. He said he was separated, getting divorced, but in March he said he had to finish things because she said she would leave him and take their daughters away… That was when I saw you in the Savoy, remember?”

“I remember.” Rix said, thoughtfully. “Look, please stop blaming yourself, he took advantage of you.”

“I got over it, but then, he came round to the Museum and said he wanted to restart things, he said he would divorce his wife if I wanted him too. I said no. Rix, please believe me when I tell you I didn’t know he was married.”

“Of course I believe you. Look, you need to forget about it, he isn’t going to bother you again, I promise. I won’t let him.”

“Oh, but what about him putting all the money up for your ward? And David said you’d lose your job…”

“I don’t care about any of that, I just care about you.” Rix said, quietly.

“Oh, Rix…” Mary-Lou replied, and the look in her blue eyes displaced the last of his hesitation. He took her in his arms, his lips met hers and they kissed.

 


#624:  Author: RosyLocation: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 8:23 pm


awww.

Yay!

Thankyou Mia!

 


#625:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 8:26 pm


Wheeeeeeeee! Mexican Wave Thank you Mia. Kiss

 


#626:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 8:31 pm


Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeee yippee!!!!

Thank you Mia!

Very Happy

 


#627:  Author: KimLocation: Tipperary, Ireland PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 8:31 pm


Thanks Mia. You need to ask if we'd like a sequel?

 


#628:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 8:36 pm


Lovely - want a Rix too!

 


#629:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 8:47 pm


We need someone to manufacture pocket Rix and Edgars!

Thanks Mia. Very Happy Incidentally, did Gerard's wife hear him? And will we ever know how she reacted? *hopeful*

 


#630:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 8:58 pm


Awwwwww!

Yay Mexican Wave

Squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Thanks Mia

Liz *bouncing*

 


#631:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 9:51 pm


Twenty minutes later, Daphne knocked on the door, slightly breathless from her mad dash up the stairs.

“Rix! John said someone was probably getting engaged, but he didn’t say who! What did he mean?” she demanded. “Why are you laughing? Rix, your shirt has got blood on it! And you’ve got lipstick on your face!”

“Engaged means I’m going to get married.” Rix explained, grinning and wiping his face. “And you’ve got chocolate on your dress, so the less you say the more you’ll shine!”

“You can’t get married ‘cos Maeve just did!” Daphne said, disapprovingly, then she brightened up. “Are you going to share her cake or get a new one? Who was that hideous man downstairs? John wouldn’t let me see.”

“We’ll get our own cake.” Mary-Lou reassured, smiling. “Forget about that man, he is hideous, I quite agree.”

“He’s gone now,” Daphne reported, full of self-importance at being the bearer of news. “His wife drove their car away though, he had to walk! I don’t know why though, but Uncle Frank said to Daddy he deserved it. He said I could call him Uncle Frank,” she added. She paused and looked at them, suspiciously, noticing for the first time that Rix had his arm around Mary-Lou’s shoulders. “Have you been kissing up here?”

“Talking, mostly.” Mary-Lou said, speaking the truth. The last twenty minutes had been spent revealing all their secrets, being completely honest with each other. Rix had told her everything about himself, about Gina, his politics and even about his visit to the Museum when Lily had spoken to him. Mary-Lou had been furious about that, but he had calmed her with more kisses. “Well, there was some kissing.” she laughed.

“Well, we did have something to celebrate,” agreed her future husband, before they all went downstairs.

 


#632:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 9:58 pm


I'm so glad I had another quick log in before bed.

Awww! seems and inadequate comment but it's entirely heartfelt.

Thanks Mia.

 


#633:  Author: tiffinataLocation: melbourne, australia PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 9:59 pm


woo-hooo!
Glad I tuned in when I should've been working!

 


#634:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 10:03 pm


Yay for Rix and Mary-Lou!

Thank you, thank you, thank you Mia for a lovely happy ending Very Happy

Liz

 


#635:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 10:19 pm


This has been great Mia, thanks. I'll add my vote to those asking for more when you can. But a most lovely tale.

 


#636:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 3:47 am


Awww, so lovely and mushy! Thank you Mia. Laughing

 


#637:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 5:58 am


Thanks, Mia!
Love Daphne's role here.
(And the engagement, of course)

 


#638:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 6:13 am


Thanks Mia,

I have really enjoyed this (although I have not done well at keeping up lately) and hope to see the sequel soon.

 


#639:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 7:20 am


Yay for a lovely ending, thank you Mia Very Happy

*weeps a little because its over*

Im really looking forward to the sequel Very Happy

 


#640:  Author: Alison HLocation: Manchester PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 7:59 am


Thanks Mia - this has been really good.

 


#641:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 8:05 am


Thanks, Mia, I'm looking forward to the sequel.

 


#642:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 8:12 am


Wonderful ending. Thank you Mia.

 


#643:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 9:44 am


What a lovely ending Mia. Thank you.

And of course we'd like a sequel!

 


#644:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 10:33 am


That was lovely Mia, thank you! Kiss

Very much looking forward to the sequel... Wink

 


#645:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 10:47 am


sad it's over, but happy cos of the lovely ending!

Thanks Mia

(and yes, a sequel would be nice...)

 


#646:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 11:30 am


EPILOGUE

On Monday, Lily Ross returned to the Museum, feeling, for her, fairly cheerful and relaxed. She had spent the last fortnight holidaying in Wales with her aunt, who had always rather spoilt her. It had been hard to get up after two weeks of long lie-ins, but she wasn’t too late – only ten-thirty and anyway, who would notice?

She nodded at the receptionist, as usual not bothering to greet her. Lily rarely bothered with people who were junior to herself.

She saw Sir Anthony Melton talking to Mary-Lou in the large gallery. They were laughing and Mary-Lou looked radiant. Lily grimaced, that was all she needed.

She went up to her office and sighed, noticing the large pile of correspondence on her desk. Deciding to shove as much of it as she could onto some of the younger curators, she picked it up and headed out of the door.

“Lily – have you heard the news?” her colleague, Jeanette called. “Guess who’s engaged? Oh wait, more importantly, Mr Ellingham’s getting divorced. It’s all over the papers, did you see it?”

“No I didn’t.” Lily said at once. “Who’s engaged?”

“Oh, Mary-Lou Trelawney. Ellingham’s wife is taking him for millions! And no-one knows why!”

“Bit of a coincidence, don’t you think? Him getting divorced and her getting engaged? You surely don’t mean to him! You know how she’s always used him… His poor wife probably had enough.” Lily was thrilled. This was gossip!

“I just saw her with the Director and they were laughing away like anything.” She carried on, nastily. “I expect she’s flirting around with him as well.”

“I don’t think so, Lily.” Jeanette looked rather shocked at this piece of malice. “Her fiancé was here this morning and I say, he was rather gorgeous,” she giggled. “They’d only just bought the ring.”

Lily scowled and stomped off, leaving Jeanette laughing at her. She was so annoyed, she even forgot to distribute the correspondence as she usually did so people would have to do her work for her.

Mary-Lou was in her office with the door open, Lily paused and looked in.

“Hello, Lily, how was your holiday?” Mary-Lou asked, pleasantly.

Lily ignored her, noticing the diamond on Mary-Lou’s hand, “Congratulations,” she said, sullenly, barely able to speak with jealousy. “When’s the wedding?”

“Possibly next month – we don’t want a big wedding, so as soon as he can get a decent amount of time off work, I suppose. I may as well tell you, I’ve handed in my notice. Not for the reason you think, I’m not enjoying working here and I’m planning to write up the notes from some of my archaeological expeditions so they can be published. I may even go back to the Middle East for a short visit. My fiancé says it’s entirely up to me where I work and what I do.” Mary-Lou said, simply. “By the way, I believe you may have met him? Dr Bettany? He called for me once, returned a cigarette lighter that you gave to Gerard Ellingham?”

Lily at once tried to bluff her way out of the difficult situation, but Mary-Lou let it drop. She still couldn’t bear Lily, but now she no longer seemed to matter, especially as she now found herself seeing through Lily’s spite for the insecurity and loneliness it really was.
Lily looked crushed and Mary-Lou felt sorry for her.

“Why don’t we just let it be water under the bridge.” She found herself saying, although she had been determined to give Lily a piece of her mind. Lily nodded and scurried away.

Mary-Lou sighed, and then smiled, feeling completely overjoyed that she would never have to see Lily again after this week, and stared dreamily at her sparkling diamonds, planning her future life.


THE END

A scene I really wanted to write, however when it came down to it I felt too sorry for Lily too!
.... Finally the end. Thanks for reading! Smile

 


#647:  Author: SquirrelLocation: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 11:38 am


Wow! I can understand you wanting to give Lily a put down Mia - I guess thats the trouble with the Chalet school - it makes you too nice! Wink Rolling Eyes Anyhow, I'm glad Mary-Lou managed to understand why she was so nasty. A lovely way to finish it all

 


#648:  Author: KatieLocation: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 11:43 am


Good for M-L managing to rise above the nastiness. Thank you for such a lovely story, Mia!

 


#649:  Author: Emma ALocation: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 12:09 pm


What will I do now that this is finished? Crying or Very sad 'cos it's over. Glad Mary-Lou could be gracious to Lily - probably more effective than losing her temper, and far more dignified.

This has been a lovely drabble, Mia. Thank-you.

Has the bunny bitten with respect to a sequel? *pleas for more*

 


#650:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 12:19 pm


How lovely to find an epilogue Very Happy

Thanks Mia

Liz

 


#651:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 1:27 pm


awww thank you Mia

I'm so sorry that it's finished - it had become one of my favourite drabbles. When may we have the sequel?!

 


#652:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 1:34 pm


Thanks for the epilogue, Mia. Lovely. Glad ML wasn't nasty to Lilly - silly girl. Looking forward to the sequel. Wink

 


#653:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 1:44 pm


That was wonderful Mia, thank you. I have really enjoyed this story.

 


#654:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 1:52 pm


Wonderful epilogue Mia, I'd forgotten abou Lily. What a nice surprise.

 


#655:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 4:14 pm


Thank you Mia. It was one of my favourite drabbles too! What's all this about sequels?! *hint hint hint*

 


#656:  Author: RuthYLocation: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 4:22 pm


So soory this drabble has ended it has been great to read, and has become a favourite of mine!

Hoping to see a sequel too (hint, hint)

Ruth

 


#657:  Author: JoeyLocation: Cambridge PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 4:56 pm


Fantabulous!

This is the only drabble in Ste Therese I've had time to read today, Mia, and I'm so glad I did! I thought the epilogue was perfect.

Hope the sequel doesn't take too long...

 


#658:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 6:39 pm


Thanks, Mia. I wasn't expecting an epilogue but it rounded it off perfectly.

*Waits impatiently for the sequel*

 


#659:  Author: aliLocation: medway, kent PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 6:48 pm


This has been a great drabble and I'm really looking forward to the continued romance of ML and the lovely Rix.

 


#660:  Author: LesleyLocation: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 7:20 pm


Lovely epilogue - thanks Mia.

 


#661:  Author: AlexLocation: Hunts, UK PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 9:05 pm


I hope the sequel will be soon, Mia, as although the ending was perfect I'm quite sad about the drabble finishing.

 


#662:  Author: RosyLocation: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 9:14 pm


Thankyou Mia. I was so excited when I saw two whole new pages. It was lovely. And I'm glad OOAOML realised what a star Rix was. Please may we have more of Rix?

Rosy x

 


#663:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 11:21 am


Lovely end to a lovely drabble. Thanks Mia. Looking forward to the sequel.

 


#664:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 9:15 pm


Thank you Mia, that was lovely.

Now, we just need to know a little more about Frank. Oh, and Daniel. And...

i think I'd better wait for the sequel...

 


#665:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 4:54 pm


I have just read this through from start to finish and I have really enjoyed the drabble. Just one question please though: Why couldn't Maurice attend the wedding?

 


#666:  Author: MiaLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 5:14 pm


Hi Chair

I thought he would be doing his National Service at that time so didn't bother to put him in this drabble! He might be in the sequel though actually Wink

Any more questions, please feel free to ask, so glad you enjoyed it Very Happy

 


#667:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 11:19 pm


There are benefits to not reading a drabble for two weeks! Not only do I get to read it all at once, and see Scumbucket get his comeuppance, but I find out already there's a sequel!!

Many thanks Mia!

 


#668:  Author: ChairLocation: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 12:07 am


Thank you, Mia. I am enjoying the sequel as well.

 


#669:  Author: LucyLocation: Leeds PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 9:37 am


What can I say Mia - this was great Very Happy

Really enjoyed it and thrilled to see a sequel already.

Thanks

 


#670:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 3:50 pm


Have just finished this Mia it was wonderful, thank you so much. Glad Gerard got his comeuppance - hope if his wife is taking him for millions she gives some to the hospital to show him up even more.

Glad M-L and Rix got together. Poor Lily what an awful life she must lead to be so bnasty to people.

Off to find the sequel now.

 




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