Alternative Challenge - Part Two
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The CBB -> Ste Therese's House
#251:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 12:44 pm

Yey, there's more of this at last! Not that I've been waiting for it impatiently for it *shakes head in denial*

Thanks, Cathy, lovely as usual!

 

#252:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 1:09 pm

Thanks Cathy. I do like the way it is being interwoven with the EBD version!

 

#253:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 7:11 pm

Miriam wrote:
Catherine_B wrote:
MaryR wrote:
In "Challenge" when Hilda arrives at half term for a visit they have to switch the heating on in the Annexe so Nancy must still have been in her own room.


Poor Rosalie not having any heating when the Abbess was away Shocked


I got the impression that the heating haadn't been turned on in the salon, becausse it was so early. (Hilda turns up at around 6:00 am). I'm sure any occupied roomks wouls have been fully heateed - this was the winter term.


Youre right, Miriam. I did actually remember that after I posted then forgot to change it to "salon".

Humble apologies! Embarassed

 

#254:  Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 7:19 pm

Thank you for posting even more Smile I've never read challenge but have the transcript now so will read soon for comparisons! Smile

 

#255:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 7:27 pm

'raaaaay!! there's more! thank you!!!

 

#256:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 11:44 pm

yay!!!! 2 lovely updates to read!

Shocked at kathie's reading material - very unCS!

 

#257:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 1:50 pm

Thank you Cathy. Lovely.

 

#258:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 2:03 pm

Hurrah, it's back!

Thank you, Cathy.

 

#259:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 6:36 pm

Brilliant, thanks!! Very Happy

 

#260:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 9:18 pm

Ruth Derwent folded up her letter with a frown. So creased was her brow that Peggy Burnett, catching sight of her across the staffroom, only just managed to stifle an exclamation of surprise. What in the world could have made the Senior Mistress look so displeased? The Games Mistress opened her mouth to ask whether she had received bad news, then thought better of it and turned away, with a last curious glance at her colleague. The motion did not go unnoticed by the elder woman, though, and her temper was none the sweeter for it.

The letter was from an old friend, once a mistress at the Chalet School and now Head of a large county high school in England. Pam Slater and Ruth Derwent were friends of longstanding, and even after eight years of living in different countries maintained a fairly regular correspondence. Recently they had written rather more than usual, for Ruth had shared with her friend her dismay at being looked over for promotion, and Pam had written back in typically blunt fashion. The former maths mistress had always been strong-minded, and this latest letter showed that little had changed.

‘My dear,’ she wrote, ‘It sounds like you’re having a thoroughly miserable term, and I’m not surprised. What a horrid situation you’re in! It must be awfully frustrating to have such an inexperienced Head. I’ve never met Nancy Wilmot, of course, but however much potential she has as a leader it hardly makes sense to promote her ahead of someone with more experience, who has served at the school for longer and in a higher position.

You don’t say so openly in your letter, but it must have shaken your confidence in the authorities. I know you’re awfully loyal to that school, Ruth, and I respect you for it, but sometimes you need to think of yourself as well. You’ve got years to go yet in your career; with your experience you could easily get a deputy headship somewhere, and I should imagine a headship without much effort. Are you really sure that you want to give up that opportunity?’

Pam was right in some ways, Ruth reflected as she put the letter away carefully. It was proving to be a difficult term. She missed Miss Annersley’s leadership. Nancy was going out of her way to consult her, it had to be acknowledged, but it seemed to the Senior Mistress that she did it out of duty, rather than a genuine desire to hear her opinion, as Hilda Annersley did. Ruth’s countenance clouded over. It was hard to do one’s best in such a situation, and she could feel that her own work was below its usual standards. Her temper had been shorter than usual, and she knew that her sarcastic tongue had played a part in sparking off Va’s recent squabbles.

The problem was, for once she didn’t seem to care.

 

#261:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 9:23 pm

Oh dear, poor Ruth. Hope she gets over this without too many tribulations.


Thanks Cathy.

 

#262:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 9:33 pm

*ulp*

*wibbles*

Thanks Cathy.

 

#263:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 7:26 am

Uh-oh. Clouds on the horizon ..... Confused

 

#264:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 7:33 am

Problems, problems, always problems! Sad Sad

Have to admit did always wonder why EBD made Nancy head while Hilda was away and can see why Ruth would be upset.

Hope they all sort themselves out without too much hassle.

Thanks, Cathy

 

#265:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 8:19 am

Poor Ruth, hope she can come to terms with this without it causing more problems and bitterness. And hope Nancy can handle the situation sensitively.

Thank you Cathy.

 

#266:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 9:13 am

Poor Ruth. I can see why she feels the way she does. At least Nancy is aware of the situation and can do her best to deal with it.

 

#267:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 8:49 pm

Poor Ruth indeed. This letter from Miss Slater is setting her up to feel even worse than she already does - is Pam so sore about the school herself she doesn't really want her friend to stay there? She could have written any number of other things in that letter!

 

#268:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 9:55 pm

Poor Ruth it must be so difficult, no wonder she is losing her confidence

I can see why Pam is encouraging her to leave, after all she has done very well out of changing schools and presumambly was trying to support Ruth in suggesting it

 

#269:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 10:29 pm

Agree with Sophoife - Miss Slater's letter could have been less bitter and more helpful!

Poor Ruth, she must be feeling seriously undervalued. Hope Nancy can handle it ok.

thanks Cathy Kiss

 

#270:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Thu Apr 14, 2005 3:42 am

Poor Ruth! Hope she'll come to realize that good teachers do not necessarily make good, or happy, administrators, and thank her lucky stars. Likewise, in time she may understand that any stiffness in Nancy's manner could be a function more of anxiety than of disrespect.

As for Pam, I don't think she means to make matters worse, only to be supportive and suggest alternatives. The CS, with its emphasis on school above individual, did seem to view seeking career advancement elsewhere as not quite kosher, perhaps a manifestation of selfish ambition -- unlike, say, marrying a doctor. Like many people, Pam probably saw her own ambitions reflected in others, and wanted to share the means of fulfillment she had found with Ruth.

 

#271:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon Apr 18, 2005 11:39 pm

“Lead on, Melanie and Henriette. Remember that you mayn’t break until we are clear of the Platz. Off you go!” Nancy Wilmot smiled at her Va charges as she started them on their ramble. It was a beautiful day for a walk and the girls were clearly in better spirits than they had been for a while. Lesley Anderson was chatting amicably to Evelyn and the rest of the form was evidently following her lead, for the new girl looked much happier than she had done for a week. ‘And that’s all to the good!’ Nancy thought to herself with relief. ‘Thank heavens for Matey! I’d never have intervened otherwise.’

The ramble proceeded along the road towards the Sanatorium, giving a perfect view across the valley to the mountains that encircled Lakes Thun and Brienz. For once it was a clear day and both girls and mistresses delighted in the sight.

“I say! That really is something, isn’t it?” Kathie said elatedly to her partner as they strolled together in the middle of the line of girls.

“It is!” Nancy agreed. “Moira and Greta! Don’t leave us behind, please!” She smiled at the leading pair, who had turned back looking rather abashed. “It’s all right, girls, but don’t get too far ahead. We don’t want to run to catch you up.” She turned to Helene Forster, who was inquiring eagerly about something. “What’s that, Helene?”

“Will we have time to visit the cascade, Miss Wilmot?” It was Lesley’s close friend who was asking.

“The waterfall?” Nancy cast her a smile. “Perhaps, though it might mean rather a rush. It depends how long we spend at the auberge.” She laughed at the girl’s pleading face, “But I’m sure you’ve seen it before, Helene.”

“Yes, but Evelyn hasn’t,” Helene said swiftly, with a glance towards where that young woman was walking with her friend. Besides being loyal to Lesley’s lead, the French girl was sensitive to the feelings of others, and Evelyn was clearly enraptured by the vista before them.

“True. Still, I’m making no promises!” the Head said easily. “If we have time, we’ll go, otherwise not. Now, let’s get the rest of this crowd in order before they frizzle themselves on the live rails.” She raised her voice, “Hi! Cross in single file, please, and carefully! We don’t want to leave a ghastly mess on the tracks!”

Mary Charlton winked at the friends nearest to her. “What price repetition?” she remarked, sotto voce. “Someone hasn’t heard Derry on the subject!” The girls spluttered, for the Senior Mistress had been particularly vocal recently on the sins of using the word ‘ghastly’ for everything unpleasant.

Kathie caught the looks and grinned at her partner. Like the girls, she had heard Miss Derwent’s tirade against the overuse of the word. “You’ve been got there, I think!” she murmured to her friend.

Nancy merely laughed in reply, and directed the girls onwards along the path.

 

#272:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 7:07 am

*giggles* Thank you Cathy Very Happy

 

#273:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 7:38 am

Lovely post, Cathy.

*gotcha, Miss Wilmot*

 

#274:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 8:00 am

*giggles at Nancy*

Thank you Cathy Very Happy

 

#275:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 8:18 am

*g*

Thank you Cathy!

 

#276:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 8:18 am

Thank you Cathy Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

*giggling at Nancy*

 

#277:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 9:31 am

Great post. Cheers!

 

#278:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 1:14 pm

oooh! Luffly!
Thank you Cathy!

 

#279:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 8:51 pm

Kathie Ferrars gloried contentedly in the sun. It was such a beautiful day, the best day that they’d had for a ramble all term. She loved being with Nancy and the girls together, it never failed to put her in good spirits. And for perhaps the first time since becoming Head, Nancy was her usual relaxed self, talking easily with the girls and simply enjoying herself. Aware of her partner’s easy good humour in the background, Kathie allowed herself to chat cheerfully with the girls around her.

“The size of the Alps?” the geography mistress smiled at Moira Caroll, who had posed the question. “Well, what do you think?”

“Not a clue!” the Irish girl replied frankly. “Please, Miss Ferrars, won’t ye tell us?”

Kathie shook her head with a laugh, “I’m not letting of you off that easily, Moira. I’m sure you know which countries the Alps stretch across, for one.”

“Switzerland, Italy, Germany,” Greta Harms replied promptly.

“And La France!” Yvette Oliver looked shocked at the omission of her native country.

“And Austria and Yugoslavia,” Lesley supplemented. “That’s all, isn’t it?”

“Yes, along with Lichtenstein,” Kathie nodded. “So how long does that make the range?” She grinned at the pleading looks that met this enquiry, “Girls! I’m sure you’ve covered this with Miss Moore!”

Len smiled across at the diminutive mistress, taking pity on the younger girls. “Around 600 miles, isn’t it, Miss Ferrars?”

“Nearly! 660, to be precise,” the geography mistress agreed. “And they vary in width from around 120 to 160 miles. The total area is around 80,000 square miles – roughly the size of England and Scotland put together.”

“Which is the tallest mountain?” Evelyn put in shyly.

Kathie glanced at her, “Mont Blanc, in France. And Finsteraarhorn is the tallest in the Bernese Oberland, though our own Jungfrau isn’t far off, of course.” She laughed as two of the girls began to question her at once, “No, that’s enough girls! This isn’t a geography lesson, you can look it up in the encyclopaedia when we get back to school.”

Prudence took pity on her old form mistress. “Isn’t there a school legend attached to these parts, Len?” she changed the subject.

The Head Girl took the hint, “There is. Have the rest of you heard it?”

Lesley nodded towards the flat path bordered with mossy rocks. “This is where some of our girls had an appalling adventure,” she explained to Evelyn. “They were gathering moss and one of them, Emerence Hope, caught her foot and slipped and nearly went over.”

Kathie smothered a smile at the mention of this adventure. It was a source of some banter between herself and her partner that, while Kathie had been dramatically rescued in her first term in Switzerland, Nancy had begun by saving someone’s life. ‘No matter how many girls you fish out of rivers or rescue from precipices, you’ll never make up for that start, my dear!’ Nancy was wont to remark teasingly when the younger woman returned from some latest adventure.

“But how did you know how to lasso her, Miss Wilmot?” she heard Prudence asking curiously.

Kathie held her breath, then gave a silent sigh of relief as her partner answered easily, “Oh, I grew up with five brothers. Slinging a lasso was only one of the accomplishments they taught me.”

It was a long time since Nancy had mentioned her family voluntarily, and Kathie read it correctly as a sign that her companion was in the most relaxed mood that she had been for some while.

Last edited by Catherine_B on Tue Apr 19, 2005 10:41 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#280:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 9:06 pm

Oh those two posts are a lovely interlude, thanks Catherine. Laughing

 

#281:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 9:59 pm

Lovely Cathy, thanks Kiss

 

#282:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 10:48 pm

lovely picture of a relaxed Kathie and Nancy together. It's a shame we never saw Hilda out on rambles!

thank you, cathy

 

#283:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 11:44 am

Thank you Cathy! Lovely - great to see them relaxing with the girls.

 

#284:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 12:14 pm

francesn wrote:
It's a shame we never saw Hilda out on rambles!



We did in some of the earlier books, francesca.

A lovely, relaxing post. Thank you.

 

#285:  Author: gypsum,  PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 1:04 pm

Quote:
We did in some of the earlier books, francesca.


Like the one where there's a ding-dong between marie and Thekla

 

#286:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 2:18 pm

Yay! Thank you Cathy - lovely Very Happy Kathie's concern for Nancy is so sweet.

 

#287:  Author: Kateth, Location: Heidelberg PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 2:28 pm

Awww, lovely post. Thank you! Very Happy

 

#288:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 2:37 pm

So nice to see them both together like that! Thanks, Cathy!

And I don't mean to be greedy, but can we see what's happening to Vi and Mary-Lou? I'm just being nosy, and shamelessly begging, of course...!

 

#289:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 2:49 pm

I'd forgotten about Vi and Mary-Lou! I'd like to see what they're up to as well.
Thanks for Kathie and Nancy though Smile

 

#290:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 6:33 pm

MaryR wrote:
francesn wrote:
It's a shame we never saw Hilda out on rambles!



We did in some of the earlier books, francesca.


but not when she was head though - sorry should have made that clearer!!

 

#291:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 6:51 pm

Lovely posts Cathy - glad Nancy was able to mention her family without obvious problems.

 

#292:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2005 6:04 am

Thank you Cathy!

So glad Nancy's able to mention her family now!!!

 

#293:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2005 10:37 pm

As the Krankees would say: Fandabeedozee!

 

#294:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2005 11:42 pm

*sigh* This wasn't the post I meant to write - Mabel always drags me off track!

“Thank goodness for another weekend!” Nancy heaved an exaggerated sigh of relief that nearly blew the post off the coffee table in the Salon. “And that makes three weeks that I’ve survived as Head – almost halfway!”

“Actually, I think you’ll find it’s just a third,” Kathie pointed out demurely, then gave a squawk as the Head of Maths threw a newspaper at her. “Nancy Wilmot, you lunatic! You nearly knocked the coffee all over me!”

“Serve you right!” her senior retorted. “Remind me why I invite you here for breakfast, won’t you? Mother’s little comfort!”

The younger woman grinned unrepentantly, “To keep your feet on the ground, my love. And to correct your maths when necessary – it seems to be going to pot recently!”

“Oh – you!” Nancy shot her an indescribable look. “Well, never mind that. You are still heading for Interlaken today, aren’t you?” Her partner nodded. “Then hurry up with the post and tell me what news you’ve got. It's all for you this time.”

Kathie shot her a smile, “I’ll be back this evening, don’t forget. And Hilary and Phil will be round.” She turned her attention to the three letters that awaited her, “One from my old high school – oh, that won’t interest you! One whose handwriting I don’t recognise. And a note from Mabel,” she opened the last-mentioned and pulled out a single sheet of paper.

“Anything worth telling?” Nancy inquired casually, spreading marmalade liberally on her toast. “You haven’t heard from her since you sent that telegram – or have you?”

Her friend shook her head, skimming the hastily-scrawled note. “This is the first she’s sent.” Her brows furrowed for a minute as she deciphered the untidy handwriting, then she looked up with a grin. “Well, we guessed right! It was Vi she’d met at Gateways.”

The elder woman stopped in mid-motion. “Not really?”

“Yup! But not deliberately… so she says.” Kathie saw her partner’s bemused look, and expanded. “She was with Mary-Lou.”

“As though that makes things any clearer!” Nancy said exasperatedly. “What was Mary-Lou doing there? And why was Vi with her?”

“That’s all she says. ‘It was Vi, as you guessed. She’d come with that Trelawney girl you put me in touch with. But it was the first time she’d been to the club, apparently, and her friend just brought her for a joke.’” Kathie read on, and her eyebrows began to rise. “‘Reading between the lines, I think she’s had a difficult time recently. We’ve met a few times now and though she always seems cheerful enough when we meet, somehow her smile only just reaches her eyes. I can’t describe it properly, but she has a distinctly vulnerable air. - Hmm!” the geography mistress broke off for a moment.

Nancy looked at her queryingly, “What?”

“I’m not sure,” her partner was reading on silently to herself, “Nothing particularly newsworthy. They went out for coffee and dinner a couple of times, and to the pictures once. It just seems – somehow -” Kathie gave a puzzled frown, “There’s something strange about it.”

“In what sense?”

“Well -” the younger woman glanced up, thoughtfully, “how would Mabel usually continue that sentence? She has a distinctly vulnerable air and…”

“‘… if I can’t entice her to dinner tonight my name’s not Mabel Cartwright!’” supplemented Nancy promptly.

“Exactly! Or ‘let’s face it, a wistful look always makes a girl so much more attractive!’” Kathie concurred with a half-smile. “Yet here she merely describes where they’ve been and when they’re meeting next.” The geography mistress put the letter down, a considering expression on her face. “Unusual. I wonder…”

Last edited by Catherine_B on Thu Apr 21, 2005 11:47 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#295:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2005 11:47 pm

Thank you Cathy! Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Intriguing... Confused

 

#296:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2005 11:47 pm

*wonders what Mabel's up to now!*

Thanks Cathy Kiss

 

#297:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 4:45 am

Hmmm, has Mabel actually fallen in love???? She's never taken anything seriously before - might Vi Lucy be the one?

Thanks Cathy - can totally sympathise with characters going their own way! Laughing

 

#298:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 8:24 am

Exactely what I was wondering Lesley - but what does Vi actually think...

Thank you Cathy!

 

#299:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 8:45 am

Fantastic to catch up a bit with Mabel. Cheers!

 

#300:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 9:46 am

Ah bless, we like Mabel so are pleased that Cathy's characters won't behave.

Please may we have another update???

 

#301:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 11:21 am

I love it when Mabel appears...things never turn out the way you expect!

 

#302:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 5:46 pm

ooooh more Mabel!!! we like Mabel

N&K evidently know her very well...most perceptive of Nancy there!

 

#303:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 8:44 pm

That was lovely Cathy!!! Thank you hunny!

 

#304:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 3:01 am

More Mabel! Marvellous! Munificent Cathy!

 

#305:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 7:28 am

Sorry about this...

The two friends speculated for a while on Mabel’s latest instalment before Kathie picked up her second letter. “I wonder who this is from. Postmarked in London – that doesn’t tell me much.” She slit the envelope open and peered inside, “Oh!” She glanced at Nancy swiftly, but that woman was busy pouring another round of coffee and hadn’t noticed her partner’s expression of dismay, “I’ll be back in a sec. I just need to pop out.”

Leaning against the wall in the corridor, Kathie took a deep breath to steady herself, then extracted two sets of papers from the envelope. The first she had already recognised was in Nancy’s handwriting. The second was unfamiliar, but turning to the end she saw the signature ‘Lillian Ainsley’. It was the married name of Nancy’s elder sister. Bracing herself for the worst, Kathie began to read. The letter was short but to the point.

‘Dear Miss Ferrars,

I am writing to you to return the enclosed letter, which my younger sister thought to send last week. It seems I have failed to make myself quite clear; I hope you will be able to explain to her better than I can. She has chosen a path that my family and I consider unnatural and immoral. My father died ashamed of her actions; my mother suffers from them still. I do not wish to have any communication with her, and if she writes to me or my children again I shall be forced to place the matter in the hands of your employers.

Yours etc.’

Kathie gave a muffled exclamation, and crumpled the paper into a ball. There had been no contact between Nancy and her family since February when they had informed her of her father’s death, for Nancy had been devastated by their decision not to tell her until the funeral had passed. After several months of painful silence, she and Nancy had decided at the beginning of term to pen a letter to the eldest siblings in the Wilmot family. Writing had not been easy, but Kathie had encouraged her partner to try, hoping that they might respond to the good news of her promotion. Evidently that hope had been misplaced.

‘And now what do I tell Nance?’ she thought despairingly. ‘I can’t show her this – it’s simply beastly. But if I don’t tell her anything she might contact them again.’ She glanced at the letter, wondering how anyone related to her lover could be so unkind. ‘Oh God! Help me on this one, for I honestly don’t know what to do.’

Biting her lip, she turned back towards the Annexe.

 

#306:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 8:04 am

Evil bitch!

 

#307:  Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 8:13 am

Cathy!
Sending hugs to Nancy and Kathie. Two drabbles where they are being bullied now Crying or Very sad

Nancy's family hammer

 

#308:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 8:15 am

Caroline OSullivan wrote:
Cathy!
Two drabbles where they are being bullied now Crying or Very sad


Ye-es... I did wonder, when Lesley began tormenting them too, whether I should stop... but it's kind of central to my whole story!

 

#309:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 8:37 am

Thank you Cathy. Glad you didn't stop - poor Nancy.

 

#310:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 11:27 am

Oh gosh poor Nancy, how truly horrid!!!

Thanks Cathy

 

#311:  Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 11:51 am

How horrible!

*cross with mean bullies*

Can't believe I havent read this for almost 2 weeks! How did that happen? Embarassed

 

#312:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 12:37 pm

*fumes, yells, kicks things and screams*

I think Lesley said it quite well! fume Evil b*tch!

Thank you Cathy - and poor Kathy and Nancy! Crying or Very sad

 

#313:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 2:30 pm

Kathie’s nerve failed her for a moment as she re-entered the Salon. Nancy was sipping her breakfast tea so unconcernedly, and she looked as relaxed as she had done at any time since the start of term. For a second the younger woman considered postponing the news until later in the week. Then, realising that the unpleasant task could only get harder as time went on, she summoned all her courage and crossed the room to sit beside her partner on the sofa.

“Um, Nance,” she touched her companion’s arm lightly to get her attention. “I’ve had a letter.”

“Oh?” Nancy looked up unsuspectingly. “From whom?”

Kathie’s heart smote her. “From Lillian.” She saw her lover’s face flood with emotions: dawning comprehension, hope unbidden, fear unspoken. It was too much to bear. “Here,” she thrust the envelope, containing Nancy’s own letter, towards her partner. Lillian’s epistle remained screwed up in her hand. She gave a gulp, “I’m really sorry. It’s not good news.”

The light faded from Nancy’s eyes. She hesitated for a moment, then turned to the envelope. There was a long pause while she digested its contents, then she looked up, “She’s returned my letter.”

“Yes.”

“That’s all?”

Kathie wished it was. “She said not to write again.”

Her lover looked at her uncomprehendingly, “But there’s nothing else here.”

“No.” Kathie met her gaze. “She wrote me a note. It said to tell you not to contact her again,” the younger woman’s voice faltered, “or she would inform the Heads.”

“Oh!” Nancy flinched. It couldn’t have been further from what they had hoped. “Well. May I see her note, please?”

Kathie had never felt so wretched. “No.” She looked away as her companion stared at her in surprise, “I’m sorry Nance, it was for me.”

“But it’s from my sister!” Nancy protested.

“There was nothing else to read,” her partner said flatly.

“But -” the older woman opened her mouth to remonstrate, then set it again in a firm line. “Oh. I see.” Her tones were suddenly icy. “What did she say?”

Kathie shook her head intractably, “Nothing worth reading.”

“Show me.”

“No!” Kathie got to her feet. “I’m really sorry, Nance. It wasn’t for you, and I’ve told you all that mattered. That’s all!” As she turned away, her wrist was caught in a vice-like grip and she found herself spun round to face her partner. “Oh!” she gave a sudden sob, “Please! It’s not worth it.”

The Head gazed down at her, “What did she say to you?”

“Nothing.” Kathie couldn’t bear her lover to read that letter, but her defences were crumbling. “Please, Nancy, let me go. S-she didn’t say anything to offend me, if that’s what you’re t-thinking,” her mind flew back to that dreadful morning when it had all fallen apart in the Wilmot family. Insults had certainly been hurled vindictively enough then.

Nancy was steadier than her partner now. “I want to see it, Kathie,” her voice was calm. “Is that it, in your hand?” Her companion gave a small nod. “Then give it to me, please.”

There was an anguished pause, then Kathie finally released her grip on the paper.

Last edited by Catherine_B on Sat Apr 23, 2005 2:55 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#314:  Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 2:48 pm

*wants to huggle them both*

*pokes Nancy's family with a red hot poker poke *

grrrrrr

Loving the story tho thank you Cathy Very Happy

 

#315:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 2:59 pm

Poor Kathie, and poor, poor Nancy having to read that evil message.


Cathy this must be very difficult to write ((((((Cathy))))))

 

#316:  Author: Kateth, Location: Heidelberg PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 3:47 pm

Ohhhhhhh... *smites Lillian with the hell stick* Poor Kathie for being put in that position, and poor Nancy for having such an un-understanding family...

Thank you so much for this, Cathy. Especially as, like Lesley said, it must be so hard to write.

 

#317:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 8:16 pm

*hugs Nancy and Kathie and pokes Nancy's evil family with a VERY sharp stick!!!!*

 

#318:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 8:40 pm

Just had a thought - how have Kathie's Aunt and Uncle taken the news, don't remember it ever being mentioned before.

 

#319:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 9:13 pm

I seem to recall that they were ok...or is that my imagination?

Lots for me to catch up and some interesting thoughts about Mabel. Thanks Catherine.

 

#320:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 8:08 am

Nancy read the short letter through several times. Her face when she looked at Kathie was very pale. “Not much doubt where she stands, then.”

The younger woman could almost feel her pain. “Oh, Nance!” she moved swiftly to sit beside her partner, “I don’t believe it for a minute. What she wrote.”

“Why not?” Nancy’s voice was quiet.

“Because your father loved you,” Kathie said fiercely. She gripped her friend’s hand insistently, “He knew you, Nancy, and he loved you. However difficult he found our relationship, I swear it didn’t change that.”

Nancy winced, glancing at the letter, “Lillian thinks differently.”

“Well damn her!” Kathie was furious. “She had no right to say that!” The younger woman almost never criticised Nancy’s family, but there was no way she was going to let her partner believe such spiteful words. “There’s no way she could possibly have known how your father felt about you - at the end.”

“No,” Nancy said slowly. She laid the letter on the coffee table and gave a deep sigh. “And we’ll never know, either.”

In answer, Kathie simply put her arms around her partner. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered, as the larger woman gradually returned the embrace. “I’m so very, very sorry.”

 

#321:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 8:17 am

Ulp! *rushes in to hug both N&K before running off armed with poking stick and smelly kippers to N's sister* fume fume fume fume

Thank you shiny Cathy Very Happy

 

#322:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 8:48 am

Gulp. *Reaching for tissues*

Thanks Cathy. This is beautiful but must have been so hard to write.

 

#323:  Author: Kateth, Location: Heidelberg PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 10:06 am

*sniffles* Good for Kathie. And thank you, again. Smile

 

#324:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 11:59 am

Crying or Very sad This is horrible, but so realistic - poor Kathie and Nancy. Crying or Very sad At least their love for each other upholds them.

 

#325:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 1:35 pm

Crying or Very sad *hisses at N's sister* Evil nasty people Nancy has in her family- perfectly amazing how nice she turned out. *sniffs*

 

#326:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 6:59 pm

I read this and posted earlier but had to return as I found it so moving, and it echoes what happened to a friend of mine when she came out to her parents, assuming they had long ago realised the true significance of her 'friend' (partner). They hadn't realised. They were unable to accept it, broke off contact with her, and her mother died without a reconcilation. Impossible to find anything good or right in that situation.

It's very sad that this was only a few years ago. This story is set when? late '50s? (I can't seem to put brain in gear... ) but attitudes have not necessarily changed far enough.

 

#327:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 8:59 pm

I'm glad Kathie let Nancy see the letter, horrible though it was - I didn't like the thought of her keeping it secret.

*pokes Lillian hard*

Thanks Cathy.

 

#328:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 8:43 am

Thank you Cathy.

Also wanting to hug N&K - so sad that N family can't accept her.

Re. Kathie's Aunt and Uncle like Carolyn I thought they were ok with it but that might just be my imagination wanting it to be so.

 

#329:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 10:30 am

I got incredibly behind on this so have had the pleasure of a long, long read this morning.

I think it is set around 1957? It's very realistic. I've known families like Nancy's and it is so, so stupid! What I can't understand is that it can still happen.

Alan reckons that anyone who acts like that is scared of their own feelings - he could be right in a lot of cases.

I do love Mabel. She reminds me of someone I know. Laughing

 

#330:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 11:44 am

Poor ole N&K.
Thanks Cathy - hope you aren't finding this too hard to write - must be horrible to be inflicting pain on your own characters!

 

#331:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 5:17 pm

(((Cathy))) this must be so difficult for you!!

Following Pim with more kippers...

 

#332:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 5:23 pm

Grrr at Nancy's sister!

 

#333:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 7:02 pm

Robin wrote:
Poor ole N&K.
Thanks Cathy - hope you aren't finding this too hard to write - must be horrible to be inflicting pain on your own characters!


Can confirm it is really hard. You feel what they would feel.

 

#334:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 9:09 am

I've just caught up with a pile of this. Poor Nancy - and silly Lillian for cutting her sister out of her life like that. She may come to regret it.

Thanks!

 

#335:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 4:51 pm

Hugs N&K and Cathy

 

#336:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 10:35 pm

After several minutes of sitting in silence, the two women gradually disentangled themselves from one another’s arms.

“Thanks, Kathie,” Nancy said quietly, “I’m glad you were here.” She squeezed her partner’s hand lightly, “And I’m sorry Lillian wrote to you. You shouldn’t have had to be in that position.”

“It’s hardly as though you wished for the letter,” Kathie demurred softly. She reached out to brush a honey-blonde strand of hair from Nancy’s face, her own expression wistful, “Oh, Nance. I wish they knew how much I loved you.”

The elder woman knew how she felt. “It’s not fair, is it? You couldn’t be better for me, yet they respond to you like this.” Her blue eyes were sad. “I’m grateful enough on behalf of all the family, though, you know.”

Kathie managed a smile, despite her pain, “I do know. And it doesn’t matter for me as much as for you.” She looked at her partner hesitantly, “Why did she write that about the children, Nance? Was it Anthea?”

“I expect so,” Nancy said, her voice reluctant. Fourteen year-old Anthea was Lillian’s eldest daughter, and her own goddaughter. “I sent her a birthday card, you know, back in July. I didn’t mean to go against her mother’s wishes, but she’d written to me. She still felt bad about what happened that Christmas,” Nancy gave a wry laugh, “as though she could have done anything! It was hardly her fault.”

“Of course not,” Kathie concurred at once. “She’s just like Len, though, feeling responsible for everything because she’s the eldest. Probably she thought she could have stopped her cousin blurting it out -”

“Exactly.” Nancy made a dismissive gesture, “Anyway, how could I leave the girl with a worry like that? So I sent her a note with a card, telling her not to worry. It was postmarked from Spain, but I suppose Lillian saw it and guessed,” she gave a frown, “I hope the kid read it first. Whatever her mother thinks of me, Anthea shouldn’t suffer for it.”

“I’m sure she did,” Kathie’s tones were reassuring. She regarded her partner soberly, “I think you’ll have to take it on trust that she did.”

Nancy glanced up swiftly, “Don’t be an ass! Of course I won’t get in touch now.” Her expression grew rather grim, “Lillian meant what she said, that’s certain.”

“Yes,” the younger woman didn’t have much doubt on that score. She gave a little shiver, “Never mind that. We’ll just think who else of the family we might have better luck with. That is… if you still want to try.”

Her partner gave an ironic smile, “Isn’t this enough of a setback, love?”

Kathie became serious, “We needn’t give up hope entirely, Nance. Just because your sister isn’t favourably disposed, it doesn’t mean they’ll all think the same. Maybe one of your brothers - or we could try a friend of the family perhaps -” She let it go, seeing her lover’s weary face, “But there’s time enough for that later, if you want.”

 

#337:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 11:00 pm

Poor Nancy, and love Kathie for refusing to allow the setbacks to stop her. Hope Anthea keeps in touch somehow.

Thanks Cathy. Kiss

 

#338:  Author: Yvette, Location: Brisbane, Australia PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 8:01 am

Catherine - this is terrific.

Have just caught up on oodles of pages because nasty RL wanted me.

Thank you.

 

#339:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 9:38 am

Thank you Cathy Kiss Still standing by with the kippers to make Nancy's family see sense... Wink

 

#340:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 11:22 am

Hope someone in Nancy's family will keep in touch.
Great, as always. Cheers.

 

#341:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 4:25 pm

Maybe young Anthea will write to Nancy and be smart enough to ask her not to reply? Just to read and know Anthea still cares??

 

#342:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 5:11 pm

Very sad but extremely true to form for the time. Thank goodness they have each other.


Here's hoping Anthea somehow will keep the channels of communication open.

Thank you, Catherine Crying or Very sad

 

#343:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 7:00 pm

I do hope they can find somone within the family, or close with whom to keep in touch. Family shouldn't react like that, although it is a sad fact that some do.

 

#344:  Author: champagnedrinker,  PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 8:39 pm

Just read the whole way through this - and part 1, and the linking bits ... trouble is, now I'm going to have to go back & re-read alt. rom as I've forgotten the full Mabel bits.

But, as others have said in here - it's very well written - EBD with plenty of extras.

Many thanks Smile

 

#345:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Mon May 02, 2005 5:41 pm

Poor Nancy!

 

#346:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed May 04, 2005 9:03 am

Thank you Cathy.

 

#347:  Author: Kateth, Location: Heidelberg PostPosted: Wed May 18, 2005 7:43 pm

*angelic smile*

Any chance of any more of this please, Cathy? It's so shiny. Even if it does make me want to go a-smiting with the hell stick on Nancy's behalf... Very Happy

 

#348:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Fri May 20, 2005 11:48 am

Echoes Kateth. When you have time Cathy... I miss this.

 

#349:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Fri May 20, 2005 12:51 pm

I miss this too. Some more would be very welcome indeed. Smile

 

#350:  Author: Changnoi, Location: New Mexico, USA PostPosted: Sat May 21, 2005 4:28 am

I love your writing so much...it's always moving and plausible and fluid.

Please, more Mabel and Vi!

Chang

 

#351:  Author: calico, Location: Wellington, New Zealand PostPosted: Wed May 25, 2005 9:02 am

Catherine, thank you. This is a such a good story. I really hope we can have more soon. I loved Alternative Romance. Re read Challenge for the Chalet School after I'd read it and enjoyed it a lot more. I've always liked Kathie and Nancy but much more so now.

 

#352:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Sun May 29, 2005 5:45 pm

Sorry for the gap. And also for a not very cheery post! PB was in an evil mood Confused

The sun was setting over the Dorset hills, turning the sky a riot of gold and crimson. It wasn’t warm enough to melt the ice that was chilling her.
"But I want to marry you, Vi."
She could hear herself choking back a sob. "I can’t. I’ve told you."
"I don’t understand why."
"I just can’t -"
"But we’ve been together nearly a year." Was that a trace of anger already? "I thought you cared for me."
"I do."
"Then marry me."

“No!” Vi woke with a start. Disoriented for a moment, she caught sight of the crumpled art history textbook before her, and burst into tears. “Oh no! Not again!”

--


‘What on earth is wrong with you?’ an inner critic berated her silently. ‘It’s been months. You should be over this by now.’

‘I am.’ She tried to defend herself. ‘It’s not my fault what appears in my dreams.’

‘Oh?’ The critical voice was merciless. ‘I don’t suppose that sitting around feeling sorry for yourself plays any part in it?’

‘I was working -’

‘Clearly’ An unpleasant sneer. ‘So where are your friends?’

‘I’m busy.’

‘You don’t have any, do you?’

‘I do. It - it’s just a difficult time.’

‘Oh, so you lost them as well as Andrew. Well done.’

‘I did the right thing about Andrew.’

‘Really? Could you have been any unhappier than you are now?’

‘It wouldn’t have worked.’

‘So why are you so miserable now?’

‘I told you. It’s a difficult time.’

‘It’s been months, Vi.’ A silence. ‘What makes you think it’s going to get any better?’

 

#353:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun May 29, 2005 5:53 pm

Yahhhhh! Lovely to see this again. Laughing


But Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad poor Vi. And did Andrew somehow ensure all her friends left too? fume

Thanks Cathy.

 

#354:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun May 29, 2005 9:02 pm

poke Andrew

So why did Vi call it off??????

*very interested*

 

#355:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun May 29, 2005 9:05 pm

Lovely to see this back again, Catherine, even if it's not a very cheerful dream fir Vi. Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 

#356:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sun May 29, 2005 11:22 pm

Poor Vi Sad

Good to see this back, Cathy

 

#357:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 12:58 am

Oh dear, poor Vi. Great to see this back!

 

#358:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 2:10 am

Oh poor ((((Vi))))

Lovely to see more of this!!

 

#359:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 8:35 am

Poor Vi!

Thank you Cathy.

 

#360:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 8:58 am

It was almost half an hour before Vi could pull herself away from the unhelpful voice.

‘So what are your plans for the weekend?’

‘Working. And seeing Mabel tomorrow evening.’

‘Mabel? She’s the only person you’ve socialised with in the last two weeks.’

‘So?’

‘Well, you do know why she’s so keen to spend time with you, don’t you?’ The voice was derisive.

‘Shut up!’ Vi threw her book across the room. ‘I don’t want to know! What’s wrong with having dinner with her?’

‘Do I really have to tell you?’

‘No!’ Vi had lost her temper at last. You’re always telling me why I shouldn’t see people. The St. Martin’s lot think I led Andrew along. The Chalet girls would despise me for being such a spineless jellyfish. It’s no wonder I don’t have any friends left!’

‘And you really think that Mabel will be any different -’

‘I don’t want to hear it! You’re not helping. Leave me alone!’

Was it coincidence that the door bell rang at that moment? “Oh hell!” Vi knew she looked a complete wreck. “Hang on! I’m coming!” she disappeared into the bathroom, splashed water hastily on her tear-stained face, and towelled it off vigorously. “Who on earth at this hour?” she asked her reflection, but it looked as confused as she did. “Fine then! We’ll just have to see…”

“Good God!” Vi’s jaw dropped as she saw her visitor. An apparition, complete in full evening attire – gentleman’s attire – was standing nonchalantly on her doorstep. “Mabel! What on earth are you doing here?”

Mabel Cartwright’s eyes sparkled. If she was surprised to see Vi looking so careworn it didn’t show on her expression. “I was just wondering if you were free this evening.”

Vi was almost too surprised to speak. “This evening? Now?”

Her visitor raised an eyebrow good-humouredly, “Well, are you?”

“I – well – I was studying -”

“On a Saturday evening!” Mabel feigned horror so dramatically that Vi couldn’t help laughing. “That’s it! You’re coming out with me!”

“But – but where?”

“To a party at the Gates. It’s evening dress night.”

“But I – I’m not dressed for it!”

“Don’t tell me you don’t have an evening dress!” Mabel grinned at Vi’s expression. “Go on! I’ll wait here. You’ve got five minutes!” Her energy was infectious.

Vi stared at her, and took a sudden decision. “Don’t go anywhere! I’ll be back soon!” And so saying, she whirled around and dashed back into the house.

 

#361:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 9:13 am

*dances around in excitement* Yay! It's back. Poor Vi though Sad BUt yay for Mabel Very Happy Thank you Catherine!

 

#362:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 9:56 am

Good for Mabel! Laughing (But gentleman's evening dress!!!!! Wink )

Thanks Catherine.

 

#363:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 10:43 am

Woooooooooohooooooooooohooooooooo!

Thank you shiny-Cathy Kiss

*strokes the lovely drabble*

 

#364:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 12:07 pm

I do hope Mabel can cheer Vi up. Wink

Thanks, Catherine

 

#365:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 1:45 pm

Cool, can just imagine Mabel in that get up! Smile

Have suspicions as to what is troubling Vi and why she has such a lack of friends!

Cathy (said in best wheedling tones) any chance of another update?

 

#366:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 2:06 pm

Yay!!!!


Hope Mabel can help Vi feel happier about things!

 

#367:  Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 2:31 pm

yay shiny cathy! yayayayayayay
Mexican Wave
Thank you oh wonderous one! I hope Mabel sorts Vi out!

Is it too soon to ask for more?? No? Then more please!! Wink

 

#368:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 2:34 pm

Katarzyna wrote:
Have suspicions as to what is troubling Vi and why she has such a lack of friends!


Well yes, I think we all have those! Wink

*Friends can't be worth much if they've not stuck by her.*

 

#369:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 4:25 pm

Poor Vi, I hope Mabel can cheer her up!!!

Thanks Cathy Very Happy

 

#370:  Author: Kateth, Location: Heidelberg PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 4:51 pm

Ooh, two updates! Shiny! Very Happy Thank you, Cathy. I do hope Mabel can help poor Vi.

 

#371:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 10:46 pm

Vi was as good as her word, reappearing less than five minutes later, somewhat to Mabel’s surprise. That young woman didn’t know that all Chalet girls could get dressed within minutes! It was the transformation in Vi’s appearance, though, that made the young Lady Cartwright catch her breath.

“I say! You look a million dollars,” she said honestly.

Vi flushed slightly. With no time to waver over her choice of eveningwear, she had simply grabbed the most elegant ball gown in her wardrobe – a silk satin gown in royal blue, with a deep V-shaped neckline and fashionably folded train – and added long silver gloves for good measure. “It’s all right?”

“You’re perfect.” Mabel admired the vision before her for a moment longer, then held out her arm invitingly. “Will you do me the honour?”

“With pleasure,” Vi took it with only a fractional hesitation. She smiled up at her companion, “Let’s go!”

--

The Gateways Club was just as Vi remembered it from the previous evening she had spent there. Entering through an unimposing doorway, she found herself at the top of a long flight of stairs, at the foot of which was a smoky club room. Heads turned below as she paused at the entrance, then a split second later Mabel appeared behind her, and the expressions on the faces turned to recognition. “Cartwright! Where’ve you been?” “About time too, old thing!” a couple of voices called out in welcome.

“Are you all right?” Mabel squeezed her companion’s arm lightly. Receiving an assenting nod, she smiled and led Vi lightly down the steps and into the crowded room below.

The first few minutes in the club passed in something of a blur. Vi was aware of being introduced to the owner, Ted Ware, and his glamorous wife Gina. A host of other people also surrounded them, a number of whom Mabel named, but Vi couldn’t take in so many faces all at once. The contrast with her quiet flat was somewhat dazing – though intensely welcome, she couldn’t help but recognise. After she had shaken the sixth hand – of yet another woman dressed in an evening suit – she heard Mabel’s voice in her ear.

“Would you like a drink? Or shall we dance?”

“Let’s dance,” Vi felt that this, at least, she could manage easily. She glanced up, and relaxed as she caught sight of the watchful expression on her companion’s face. “I’m fine, Mabel. Thanks.”

“Good,” Mabel said evenly. Then she smiled, and some of the seriousness left her face. “It’s a waltz. Shall we?”

 

#372:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 10:50 pm

Thank you shiny Cathy!!!!

Three updates since last I looked!

 

#373:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 10:53 pm

Thank you Cathy Kiss

 

#374:  Author: Signa, Location: Lily ponds, Bosherston PostPosted: Mon May 30, 2005 11:05 pm

Yipppeee!!!!!! And worth waiting for.
Thank you, Catherine.

 

#375:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue May 31, 2005 12:13 am

Thank you Catherine - 2 posts since yesterday!

 

#376:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue May 31, 2005 3:35 am

Pleased Vi is enjoying herself.

Thanks Cathy.

 

#377:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue May 31, 2005 8:30 am

Thank you Cathy! Pleased Vi is enjoying herself and that Mabel rescued her from the voice!

 

#378:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Tue May 31, 2005 9:57 am

So pleased to see this (and the wonderful Mabel) back. Very Happy

 

#379:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Tue May 31, 2005 3:24 pm

Thank you Cathy! Mabel is so good for Vi, hope she appreciates her.

 

#380:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue May 31, 2005 9:25 pm

wow loads of posts to catch up!!!

Thank you Cathy - I love Mabel in this!

 

#381:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue May 31, 2005 10:16 pm

Thank you Cathy. Love Mabel and hope she can shake Vi up so that voice gets dislodged.

 

#382:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue May 31, 2005 11:07 pm

Coming in here to have a wail (sorry it's not a post)! I had a lovely installment in my head all ready to be written down, then I got home and discovered I'd locked myself out. Was particularly unfunny as my neighbour who has my spare keys was away on a walking trip, I wasn't sure when she'd be back, and I knew my passport (needed for an early flight to Africa tomorrow morning!) was in the house Shocked Fortunately she finally got back to Oxford at 10pm, just as I was contemplating breaking a window to get in, but the consequence is that I'm all behind with preparing for my trip and have no time to drabble. Alas!

(Having said that, last time I was in Senegal I think I wrote about a dozen installments of this - so will hope for a similarly fruitful time this week!)

 

#383:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 8:33 am

Aww Cathy! Glad she got back eventually and you didn't have to resort to breaking windows. Hoping for a productive trip!

 

#384:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire PostPosted: Wed Jun 01, 2005 9:26 pm

Huurah, it's back! Thank you, Catherine.

Don't we all need a Mabel to rescue us on those days when the voice won't go away?

Hope the African trip (and writing) goes well.

 

#385:  Author: calico, Location: Wellington, New Zealand PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 8:48 am

Thank you Catherine.
This is great. I love the story.
Hope your trip goes well.

 

#386:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Thu Jun 02, 2005 7:42 pm

Poor Cathy! Glad you got in eventually and I hope you have a good (and productive) trip.

 

#387:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Fri Jun 03, 2005 12:15 pm

Lovely stuff! It's great the way that Mabel breezes in like a breath of fresh air! (Overdone the metaphors/similes there?! Wink )

The sun is shining and I have just read these three fab installments! Life doesn't get much better ...

(True. I now need to do the ironing on my last day off!)

 

#388:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 3:54 pm

Mabel proved to be a surprisingly sure lead on the dance floor. Vi, who had danced with girls throughout her schooldays, found it quite easy to relax and enjoy herself in her companion’s sure arms. A dark pianist from the American South provided the music and along with a number of couples Mabel and Vi danced to an eclectic mixture of foxtrot, quickstep and tango. In keeping with the ballroom theme, the style was fairly old-fashioned for the first hour, but after a few requests from regulars the pianist laughed and beckoned to a couple of his friends at the bar. As the trumpet and trombone joined him, the music became ever livelier and more and more people got up to dance. Vi had never tried jiving before, but the exhilarating sounds from the band overcame her initial reticence, and under Mabel’s capable guidance she soon abandoned herself to the music.

Towards eleven o’clock the floor began to feel crowded. Mabel, with a keen eye to her guest’s wellbeing, saw that the younger woman was somewhat discomfited by the couples starting to dance the notorious “Gateways grind” nearby. As the song ended, she leant over and spoke in her partner’s ear,

“What do you think? Have we earned that drink yet?”

Vi nodded, “I think perhaps we have!”

Mabel smiled, “Then shall we rest for a minute?” Keeping her arm around her companion, she steered her gently through the crowd. “I say, you do dance well.”

“Oh,” Vi was rather flushed, “Not really. You lead well.”

“Best when my partner follows as lightly as you,” Mabel returned the compliment easily. They reached the bar, “So what can I get you?”

--

Cocktails in hand, they made their way towards the alcoves where people were sitting.

“May I introduce some of the girls?” Mabel glanced at Vi queryingly.

“Of course!” the younger woman had recovered from her initial shock at being confronted with so many faces, “I’d love to meet them.”

“I’m glad,” Mabel nodded, then waved at four women who were sitting around an upturned beer barrel. “Evening, ladies!”

“Evening!” a chorus greeted her. “Who’s that with you?” one voice added. A petite, very made-up girl shot Vi a friendly smile, “I don’t think we’ve seen you before.”

“I’m Vi,” the owner of that name said shyly, taking the seat that Mabel pulled up for her. “I have been here before, actually. But only once.”

Her host smiled at her, “I’ll introduce this lot. They’re regulars, all of them.” She indicated towards an unconvential-looking woman dressed in a long red and gold dress at the end of the table, “That’s Lisa, our resident painter. She’s responsible for half of the murals round this place.” She nodded at that lady, “Vi’s an artist too – from St. Martin’s.”

“Really?” Lisa sat up at this. “I don’t suppose you’d like to join us? We’re doing the back room next month.”

“Oh!” Vi looked rather taken aback, “I’m only a student!”

“The more the merrier!” the other woman dismissed this with a wave of her hand. “Ted and Gina want as many of the customers to contribute as possible. You’ll be very welcome if you do.”

Mabel smiled at Lisa, but refused to be diverted from her task. “Next to her is Dora,” she nodded at a quiet looking woman in a suit, who was clearly Lisa’s girlfriend. “She’s a civil servant. After that is Jim – Jemima Anastasia really, but nobody calls her that -”

Vi smiled involuntarily, thinking of Tom Gay.

“- she’s a mechanic and a very useful woman to know,” Mabel winked at her friend, “though what she’s doing in jeans at a dress-up evening I’d like to know!”

“Well excuse me!” Jim pulled a face at her good-humouredly. “I’ve put on a jacket and tie, isn’t that good enough for you, M’Lady?”

Mabel flashed her a grin. “And next to Jim is Annie,” she indicated the last member of the party, the pretty girl who had greeted Vi earlier. She saw her guest opening her mouth to ask Annie whether she worked as well, and added hastily, “that’s the lot.”

The young Lady Cartwright rather suspected that Vi’s education wouldn’t have prepared her for meeting a girl ‘on the game’, and she had no desire for awkwardness on either side.

 

#389:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 4:18 pm

I do like Mabel! Thank you Catherine.

 

#390:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 4:37 pm

Catherine_B wrote:
The young Lady Cartwright rather suspected that Vi’s education wouldn’t have prepared her for meeting a girl ‘on the game’, and she had no desire for awkwardness on either side.



Love that!

So how long before Vi twigs then? Or has she realised already?

Thanks Cathy - love Mabel - wonderful character.

 

#391:  Author: champagnedrinker,  PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 5:00 pm

Catherine_B wrote:

“Ted and Gina want as many of the customers to contribute as possible. You’ll be very welcome if you do.”


Bother. I saw this & thought "Oohh. is Vi going to get a shock when she meets Ted Grantley again, only I just read back a bit & found Ted's a "he" Ted.

Glad that this is back, and well done for posting from Senegal - or, from my experience of such countries ... finding an internet cafe in which the power and phone lines were both working, at the same time!!

 

#392:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 7:12 pm

Cathy you are INCREDIBLY shiny Kiss thank you!

 

#393:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 10:06 pm

ooooh yay!!!!!

thank you, Cathy - much appreciated

 

#394:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 10:58 pm

Thank you Cathy Very HappyVery HappyVery HappyVery Happy

 

#395:  Author: Yvette, Location: Brisbane, Australia PostPosted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 8:51 am

Thanks muchly for the new update, from deepest, darkest Africa no less.

I love Mabel - she's like a breath of fresh air (or maybe a gale!). Laughing

I can just see her standing on Vi's doorstep in full evening get up (sorry for going back a bit, but my computer crashed and am just now catching up), just as I can see her being sensitive to Vi's view on life (to put it one way!).

This is great!

 

#396:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 9:09 am

Thank you Cathy - love Mabel, she's so refreshing!

 

#397:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 9:37 am

*joins int he Mabel-worship*

Thanks for the long-distance update, Cathy! Very Happy

 

#398:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 8:08 pm

Back in the UK!

The next half hour passed agreeably for all parties concerned. Mabel’s friends welcomed Vi warmly into their midst, though each of them wondered privately at the introduction. Usually when Mabel had a woman in her sights she dedicated herself wholly to the pursuit, and didn’t detour for such pleasantries. And since so many of her conquests were one-night stands, her friends rarely learnt their names – in fact they suspected that Mabel didn’t bother to, either! Annie and Lisa exchanged meaningful glances, while Jim, suddenly remembering Mabel’s unwonted visits to the Gateways the previous month, only just managed to restrain herself from asking her friend openly whether this was the girl for whom she had been looking.

Towards midnight, however, a shadow fell over the alcove and Vi noticed with surprise that Jim and Annie were looking over her shoulder with distinct aggression. She turned slightly and saw a tall woman, very elegantly dressed in a black and silver ballgown, standing behind her.

“Keeping good company as usual, Cartwright!” The woman’s upper-class voice held a disagreeable sneer.

Mabel barely bothered to look in the woman’s direction. “Takes more than a title to make a lady, Aylesbury.”

The tall woman smiled sardonically, “Oh, I’m sure good society helps.”

Jim glanced from Mabel to her interlocutor, “No one’s forcing you to stay here – how about you take yourself off and pollute some other part of the club?” Her voice was very unfriendly.

“I, polluting?” Lady Aylesbury gave a little laugh. “You should ask your little friend here for the meaning of the term,” her eyes flicked coldly to Annie.

Mabel reached across the table just in time to hold Jim down in her seat, for that young woman had turned puce with rage. Then she turned to regard the intruder with a freezing look, “Does your husband know where you are tonight, Aylesbury?”

The visitor glared at her venomously for a moment, then tossed her head. “I don’t know why I even bother talking to you,” she turned away angrily.

The women at the table muttered indignantly as the woman’s figure retreated. “Of all the unpleasant -” “Don’t know why they let her in -”

Mabel glanced at Jim, who was still distinctly red in the face. “Sorry about that.”

“’salright,” Jim muttered indistinctly, “I shouldn’t let her get to me. Only -”

Annie looked up from her hand-mirror, in which she was checking her reflection. “Don’t fret, love. She’s not worth it.”

Vi felt rather overwhelmed by all the drama. “Who is she?”

“Lady Aylesbury, formerly the Honourable Moira St Andrews, a young woman I once had this misfortune to know,” Mabel said tersely. Her glance round the table forbade her friends to reveal further details of the ill-fated alliance.

“A lady of excellent connections,” Lisa added sarcastically. “Her husband is the largest landowner in Buckinghamshire. And her father is the second largest landowner in Northants.”

Dora snorted suddenly, “One of the reasons she can’t stand Mabel.”

“Oh?” Vi looked confused.

Mabel kicked Dora’s ankle under the table. “Because she’s a horrible little snob,” she said briefly to Vi. “Never mind all that. I think it’s time for another round of drinks – what do you all want?”

 

#399:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 8:23 pm

Luffly shiny Cathy thank you Kiss

(something to keep me sane during exammage...)

 

#400:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 8:25 pm

Thank you Cathy!!

Glad Vi is getting on well with Mabel and her friends Very Happy

 

#401:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 9:17 am

Thank you Cathy! Vi seems to be enjoying herself! Intrigued as to Mabel's motives...

 

#402:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 10:37 am

Fantastic! Am also wondering what Mabel's up to...

 

#403:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 3:37 pm

Methinks the nasty Aylesbury is jealous! Twisted Evil Thank you Cathy, always love it when Mabel is about.

 

#404:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 6:56 pm

Catherine_B wrote:
“A lady of excellent connections,” Lisa added sarcastically. “Her husband is the largest landowner in Buckinghamshire. And her father is the second largest landowner in Northants.”


Mabel's father being the largest landowner I assume?

Love Vi's innocence here -wonder why Mabel wants to preserve it - think she looks on Vi as more than a one night stand.

Thanks Cathy.

 

#405:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 7:03 pm

As Mabel made her way to the bar, Vi excused herself from the group and headed for the Ladies. Her head was whirling with all the new impressions, and she knew she needed to sit alone in quiet for a moment. Reaching the bathroom she shut herself in one of the cubicles and leant against the wall in relief.

Her peace was short lived, however, as three women entered the room, clearly somewhat under the influence of alcohol, and talking and giggling nineteen to the dozen.

“I say, have you seen Mabel’s latest number?” Vi realised with a shock that they were talking about her. “What a looker!”

“And good on the dance floor,” a second voice added with a giggle. “Not that she’s my type, of course -”

“- No, that’d be Mabel!” the third voice chipped in.

“Ooh!” there was a little squeal, “Jane, you rotter!”

“Come off it, Kit! We all saw you leave together last month -”

A fit of giggling ensued. “Just because we happened to walk out at the same time -”

“Doesn’t mean anything, I’m sure!” the first woman commented.

“I’m not saying a word!”

Jane ‘hemmed’ knowingly. “Be that as it may, you’re the last girl to have left the Gates with Mabel. And that was more than a month ago.”

Disbelief greeted this statement. “A month?”

“Mabel Cartwright?”

“Never!”

“Really!” Jane said emphatically. “Go on, who was the last person you saw her with?”

There was a pause as the other two thought. “Well, there was that French woman – what was her name – Renee?”

“Chrissie before her -”

“And Pam -”

“And that Scottish girl who ended up with Jess afterwards -”

“That red-head who kept coming back in floods of tears looking for her -”

“Alice, I think her name was -”

“No, Amy – or was that another one - ”

“You see!” Jane said with emphasis. “Mabel always has a girl on the go – at least one! But she hasn’t for a month. It’s not normal -”

“Maybe she’s fallen in love at last -” Kit giggled.

“Infatuation, more like,” the first woman commented. “Not surprising, she’s a pretty girl -”

“All the girls Mabel picks up are pretty though -”

“Can’t think why they go for her -”

“The title perhaps?”

“Or the Bentley -”

“- She’s a very good kisser!” Kit said defensively. She gave a squeal of dismay as she realised what she’d said, “I mean, they say she is!”

Her friends dissolved into laughter, “It’s time we got you home, love,” the first woman choked back her giggles. “Come on, hold onto my arm. I’ll give you a lift home – if my Morris is still good enough for you, that is!”

 

#406:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 7:06 pm

Oh dear, poor Vi, I can't think she is going to take this well. Crying or Very sad

(Or maybe she will - she might have been getting annoyed at how long Mabel was taking!!!!)

Thanks Cathy.

 

#407:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 12:05 am

ooooooh - has Vi actually realised yet or is she still the complete innocent?

and more importantly does she reciprocate?

 

#408:  Author: Pado, Location: Connecticut, USA PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 2:36 am

OK, so I'm the newbie Embarassed ...where can I read up on Mabel so I get all the implications here? Cool

 

#409:  Author: Changnoi, Location: New Mexico, USA PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 4:06 am

I LOVE MABEL.

Every time I read these stories, I get shocked that they're not actually part of the Chalet School Oeuvre as conceived of by EBD. When I go back and read the books, all the subtext re: Kathie and Nancy's relationship is there. I've mentally added Alternative Romance to the legitimate CS canon. And now with Mabel and Vi, I'm doing the same thing..."Oh, EBD decided that Vi would become an art student and date a rich titled woman." These stories are so well-written that they blend seamlessly into the real thing.

Chang

 

#410:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 8:22 am

The word *ulp* springs to mind here... so I shall sit and weeble to myself about how Vi is going to react. Mabel, however, is rather fab. Thanks Cathy!

 

#411:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 8:34 am

Thanks Cathy.

Also wondering how Vi will react - she may surprise us all...

 

#412:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 9:51 am

Hmmm. Will Vi be put off by Mabel's rather extensive list of conquests?
Can't wait to find out Very Happy

 

#413:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Jun 08, 2005 11:10 pm

When Vi finally emerged from the toilets she was looked distinctly drawn. Mabel, catching sight of her pale countenance as she approached the table, stood up at once.

“Are you OK?” her eyes searched Vi’s face with concern.

“I – yes,” Vi vouchsafed hesitantly. She avoided Mabel’s gaze, “I’m just a bit tired.”

“Let’s go then,” Mabel said instantly. “It’s almost midnight, anyway. I’ve kept you out long enough.” She turned to her friends, pulling an expressive face at them, “’Night all. See you all soon.”

“’Night!” Jim reached out for the two untouched drinks.

“See you again, I hope,” Annie said softly to Vi, seeing her tired expression.

“T-thanks,” Vi’s energy was waning fast. Mabel proffered her arm, and the younger woman leant on it with mixed feelings. “Nice to have met you all.”

The two women made their way outside into the cool night air.

‘Oh God! What have you got yourself into?’ Vi felt that events were spiralling way beyond her control. ‘What on earth is she going to want? What did I do by agreeing to come out tonight? What will she expect?’

Mabel, whose ability to read women was generally second-to-none, was nonplussed at the change in her companion. “Vi, I’m sorry – something has upset you -”

“No, it was a lovely evening.” Vi felt like she might cry, “I’m sorry, Mabel. I’m just tired.”

“Are you sure?” Mabel wondered suddenly whether her guest had realised about Annie. “It wasn’t - Annie - that upset you, was it?”

The younger woman glanced up in surprise, “No! Why would you think that?” Her face was puzzled, “ She seems lovely.”

Mabel breathed an inward sigh of relief. “Good.” She looked at Vi, and her heart flip-flopped. Why, oh why, did she look like she wanted to run away? “I’m glad I got to introduce you to my friends.”

Vi winced, distress suddenly showing on her face. “Do you say that to all the girls?”

Her companion stared at her. “No, I don’t.” Where had that question come from? “I rarely introduce anyone I’m interested in to my friends.” Out of the corner of her eye, she caught sight of someone turning on to the street, a hundred yards away. “Vi, I’m awfully sorry,” she said slowly, “I can’t guarantee that we’re safe here. Will you come to the car?”

It was the expression on her guest’s face that gave the game away.

“Oh God! What kind of person do you think I am?”

“I – I – don’t know!” Vi stammered.

Mabel took a step back. “Look, I don’t know what you’ve heard. If it’s that I date a lot of women, it’s true.” She stared at her guest, for the first time ever almost wishing that it wasn’t. “But I would never, ever touch a woman if she didn’t want it.” She thought desperately. “Look, can you drive?” Her guest nodded. “Good,” Mabel fished in her jacket pocket, her eyes not leaving the younger woman’s face. “Here. Do what you like, Vi. You’re in control.”

 

#414:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 12:03 am

Oh, how gracious and sensitive of Mabel...and how hard for her. Come on, Vi, be understanding.

 

#415:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 3:42 am

Lovely gesture of Mabel - hope Vi can accept it.

Thanks Cathy.

 

#416:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 4:59 am

Good for Mabel!

But slightly worried about
Quote:
I can’t guarantee that we’re safe here
.

 

#417:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 6:41 am

Awesome attitude by Mabel.

Hope Vi can go with it.

Thank you Catherine!

 

#418:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 8:42 am

Very sensitive of Mabel, hope Vi can accept that and that she can work out what she wants.

Thanks Cathy.

 

#419:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 9:21 am

Mabel handled that really well - hope it works out.

 

#420:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 12:40 pm

oh i LIKE Mabel for the way she handled that.

*claps*

no I hope Vi will appreciate it

 

#421:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 2:45 pm

Thank you Kiss this is LOVELY... and so beautifully written...

 

#422:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 8:17 am

Vi took the keys mutely. Then, to Mabel’s consternation, she began to cry quietly. “I’m so sorry!”

“There’s no need to be,” her host bit her lip.

“Yes, there is,” the lovely face was a picture of dismay. “You’ve been so kind to me – kinder than anyone –”

“I just enjoy your company -”

Vi gave a sudden sob, “I didn’t mean to insult you.”

“Oh, Vi!” Mabel threw caution to the winds and pulled her into a big hug. “My lovely girl, please don’t cry! I’m not at all insulted,” she held the other woman tightly, stroking her bronzy curls. “Please believe me. I just want you to feel safe.”

The younger woman leant against her shoulder for a minute. “I – I heard these girls talking – about you -”

“Let me guess,” Mabel said lightly. “I’m an incorrigible womaniser, who uses her wealth to seduce people.”

“Something like that.”

“Then I’m guilty as charged.”

Vi gave a hiccough. “Are you really that rich?” she pulled back slightly to look at her host, fighting to regain her composure.

“You mean you didn’t notice my car?” Mabel pretended to look affronted. Her eyes were very soft though as she regarded the beautiful woman before her. “Lady Cartwright, owner of half of Northamptonshire, at your service, ma’am.”

“Ah,” Vi bit back a smile. “That would explain a bit.”

Mabel nodded, and released her hold on the other woman. “Honestly, Vi, I’d never take advantage.”

“O.K.”

There was a moment’s silence as the two women looked at one another. Then Vi glanced down at the objects she was clutching in her hand. “So I’m holding the keys to one of the most expensive cars in London?”

“Pretty much, yes.”

“Might as well take it for a drive, then.”

Last edited by Catherine_B on Fri Jun 10, 2005 8:27 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#423:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 8:27 am

Thanks, Catherine, that was just a spine tinglingly perfect update.

Mabel is indeed behaving like a perfect lady at the moment. It must be love...

 

#424:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 8:28 am

Absolutely perfect! Thank you Cathy, lovely Kiss

 

#425:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 11:22 am

Gosh! Vi took that well!

Thanks Cathy...

(oh yes, OT: my mother said tonight that my brother made a conscious choice to be the way he is because he couldn't get a girlfriend...she says he didn't want to be alone so chose to have a male partner rather than none at all - ummmmmm not quite mum, you're living in a dream world - he's been gay since before he knew what personal sexual orientation was)

 

#426:  Author: Kateth, Location: Heidelberg PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 12:06 pm

Thank you, Cathy! Shiny shiny. Mabel's such a gentleman.

Sophoife wrote:


(oh yes, OT: my mother said tonight that my brother made a conscious choice to be the way he is because he couldn't get a girlfriend...she says he didn't want to be alone so chose to have a male partner rather than none at all - ummmmmm not quite mum, you're living in a dream world - he's been gay since before he knew what personal sexual orientation was)


Parents can be charming, can't they... Confused

 

#427:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 2:08 pm

*bounces*

shiny drabble! shiny Cathy! shiny Mabel! shiny drabble!

 

#428:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 9:09 pm

I love Mabel! She's great! Seems she's the only person to help Vi with her troubles. Let's hope she can improve things.

 

#429:  Author: Signa, Location: Lily ponds, Bosherston PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 9:42 pm

Wanting to ride in Mabel's car with Vi...

 

#430:  Author: champagnedrinker,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 10:19 pm

Signa wrote:
Wanting to ride in Mabel's car with Vi...


With or without Mabel Wink

I'm glad this is back, I've been busy for a while, good to get back to several updates. Smile

 

#431:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 2:50 pm

Want to own Mabel's car.

Thanks Cathy - I love Mabel. Laughing

 

#432:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 8:40 pm

Excellent stuff! But what oh what is going on in Vi's mind, I wonder ....?

 

#433:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 6:36 pm

I've just returned from holiday to find this back, Catherine. Lovely. And I have really enjoyed the updates.

What IS going to be Vi's reaction - apart from wanting to take that car for a spin? Shocked

 

#434:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 3:10 am

Ooh Vi doesn't seem too scared of Mabel anymore. Hope she does trust her. Thank you Catherine.

 

#435:  Author: urchin, Location: Anywhere but here... (blackpool!) PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 11:36 pm

don't know if I'm putting my foot in it but I really want to remind you that this story exists and really should be completed if possible.

I'm really enjoying it, and want to now how the term ends!

Urchin

 

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House


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